Helena Wolfsohn Appraisal

Pair of Dresden Helena Wolfsohn Yellow Ground Lidded Vases

This is a fine pair of 19th-century German porcelain lidded vases, measuring approximately 45cm in height and 20cm in width. Consistent with the Dresden style, specifically Helena Wolfsohn's studio, each vase features a vibrant canary yellow ground. The central bodies are decorated with large, hand-painted quatrefoil reserves depicting romantic pastoral scenes in the 'Fête Galante' style, reminiscent of Watteau. These vignettes are enclosed by intricate, gilded scrolled borders. Most notably, the vases feature figural 'Hermes' or warrior-head handles with colorful plumed helmets in shades of pink, blue, and green. The domed lids are topped with artichoke or pinecone finials and decorated with floral sprigs. The craftsmanship is of high quality, showcasing fine hand-painting and elaborate gilding typical of the late 19th-century Rococo Revival period. While generally in good antique condition, there appears to be minor loss to the gilding on the rims and bases, and a possible repaired finial on the left vase. The yellow enamel remains bright and consistent across both pieces, indicating they have been kept as a true pair. Such pieces often carry the 'AR' (Augustus Rex) monograms used by Wolfsohn until legal disputes forced their cessation.