I've addressed the topic of Etruscan Majolica reproductions a couple of times already in this blog, but the number of other repros flooding the market has become so sizable I feel a need to address the topic again.
If you go to flea markets or auctions on a regular basis, you're familiar with seeing majolica reproductions often. The truth of the matter is that the knowledgeable buyer is not usually the one who is the target of these phony pieces. It is generally the new collector or just the casual buyer who knows little about majolica that is the focus of these poorly made pieces.
If you go to flea markets or auctions on a regular basis, you're familiar with seeing majolica reproductions often. The truth of the matter is that the knowledgeable buyer is not usually the one who is the target of these phony pieces. It is generally the new collector or just the casual buyer who knows little about majolica that is the focus of these poorly made pieces.
Mottahedah reproduction Fan punch bowl
This piece is a copy of a well loved majolica design from Shorter & Boulton shown below.
Where the original has a value of several hundred dollars, the reproduction will generally sell for less than $100. This reproduction was found on Ebay's English site and described as an "antique pitcher" in "excellent condition." For all we know it is entirely possible that the dealer has no idea that this is a reproduction. That is why it is important that any antique collector do their homework before buying .
Another monkey piece found commonly is this reproduction of the Jones monkey creamer.
Reproduction monkey creamer
George Jones majolica monkey creamer
As you can see by looking at the real thing directly above, there is no mistaking the quality of the genuine article.
George Jones, I'm afraid has been the subject of many reproductions, some better than others but all of lower quality than the original. Take a look at these repros, followed by the true Jones piece below them.
Reproduction stag compote
George Jones majolica Europe compote
Reproduction nut dish
George Jones majolica nut dish
Reproduction bird dish
George Jones majolica bird dish
No major potter has been spared when it comes to reproductions. Even Holdcroft, whose pieces are generally much more reasonably priced than George Jones or Minton, has had pieces copied:
Reproduction pitcher
Holdcroft majolica pitcher
The bottom line is that there really is no substitute for education when buying antiques. I encourage everyone to read everything they can and keep up with the market of repros. I have even seen seasoned dealers fooled by some of these pieces so keep on your toes when buying. There's no reason you need to be one of those left holding the phony.
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