Zsolnay Eosin Glaze Art Nouveau 'Narcissus' Figural Dish
Antique/Decorative Art Ceramics

Zsolnay Eosin Glaze Art Nouveau 'Narcissus' Figural Dish

This is a quintessential example of Art Nouveau ceramics from the renowned Hungarian manufacturer Zsolnay. The piece features a shallow, organic-shaped dish, likely intended as a vide-poche or pin tray, modeled after a lily pad or a pool of water. Seated on the rim is an elegant, stylized female nude figure in a contemplative posture, leaning over the edge to gaze at her reflection, a design historically referred to as 'Narcissus'. The item is finished in the signature 'Eosin' glaze, a complex iridescent metallic finish that displays a shifting color palette ranging from luminous gold and emerald green to deep purples and blues. The glaze is characterized by its high-gloss, liquid-like sheen which emphasizes the fluid, sinuous lines typical of the Secessionist movement. At the point where the figure's hand touches the bowl, the craftsman has simulated ripples in the ceramic surface, adding a realistic narrative touch to the stylized form. Regarding condition, the glaze appears to be in excellent state with minimal crazing visible; the iridescent surface is bright and shows no significant scuffs or 'rubbing' common in older pieces. While the base is not visible in the image, these items typically bear the five-church Zsolnay Pecs stamp. The craftsmanship is high, exhibiting the seamless integration of figure and vessel typical of the early 20th-century period (circa 1900-1920) or a high-quality mid-century reissue.

Estimated Value

$1,800 - $2,500

Basic Information

Category

Antique/Decorative Art Ceramics

Appraised On

January 26, 2026

Estimated Value

$1,800 - $2,500

Additional Details Provided By Owner

User Provided Information

Zsolnay Eosin Art Nouveau dish

Item Description

This is a quintessential example of Art Nouveau ceramics from the renowned Hungarian manufacturer Zsolnay. The piece features a shallow, organic-shaped dish, likely intended as a vide-poche or pin tray, modeled after a lily pad or a pool of water. Seated on the rim is an elegant, stylized female nude figure in a contemplative posture, leaning over the edge to gaze at her reflection, a design historically referred to as 'Narcissus'. The item is finished in the signature 'Eosin' glaze, a complex iridescent metallic finish that displays a shifting color palette ranging from luminous gold and emerald green to deep purples and blues. The glaze is characterized by its high-gloss, liquid-like sheen which emphasizes the fluid, sinuous lines typical of the Secessionist movement. At the point where the figure's hand touches the bowl, the craftsman has simulated ripples in the ceramic surface, adding a realistic narrative touch to the stylized form. Regarding condition, the glaze appears to be in excellent state with minimal crazing visible; the iridescent surface is bright and shows no significant scuffs or 'rubbing' common in older pieces. While the base is not visible in the image, these items typically bear the five-church Zsolnay Pecs stamp. The craftsmanship is high, exhibiting the seamless integration of figure and vessel typical of the early 20th-century period (circa 1900-1920) or a high-quality mid-century reissue.

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