Mettlach Style Appraisal

Toulene ware/Mettlach Style Jardiniere

This item is a cylindrical jardiniere or planter, likely crafted from ceramic or porcelain, given its smooth, glazed appearance. It stands on three prominent ball-shaped feet, each adorned with a gilded ring at its base where it meets the body of the jardiniere. The main body of the piece features a dark, possibly olive-green or rich brown, textured field that frames a central decorative band. This band is predominantly cream or light tan in color, showcasing a pastoral scene with figures dressed in what appears to be traditional or historical European attire, surrounded by trees and a rustic fence. One notable figure is a woman in a red skirt and white apron carrying a basket, depicted in mid-stride. The top and bottom edges of this pictorial band are bordered by a thin, intricate gold design, suggesting a high level of decorative detail. The overall condition shows some visible wear, particularly on the white feet which appear scuffed and discolored, indicating age and use. The glaze on the body seems largely intact, though minor surface irregularities might be present but are not clearly discernible from the image. The underside of the jardiniere, visible in one of the images, is white and reveals what appears to be a manufacturer's mark, possibly a stamp in blue ink, along with some impressed numbers or letters, though these are too blurry to be precisely identified. The style, particularly the detailed scenes and color palette, suggests it could be Toulene ware or in the style of Mettlach pottery, dating possibly to the late 19th or early 20th century. The craftsmanship appears to be of good quality, typical of decorative ceramic wares from that era, designed for holding plants or as a decorative accent.