Glazed and Confused: July 2019

Wednesday, July 31, 2019

Wedgwood Majolica "Monkey" Wares

One of the more whimsical group of wares created by the Wedgwood factory are their monkey themed wares. Difficult to find in any form, they are among the most sought after pieces in the company's catalog.

Monkey drawings from the Wedgwood pattern books

In majolica, the centerpiece of the group would have to be the stunning, large, figural monkey compote. To the best of our knowledge all pieces were made in four majolica ground colorways: Argenta, cobalt, turquoise and ivory as well as in decorated earthenware.

An Argenta example of the monkey centerpiece.

This monkey stand was also made as a gas lamp with a coconut oil reservoir substituting for the bowl, shown below in decorated earthenware.

The compote bowl came with a simpler tree stump base as well.

Matching plates, chargers and teapots complete the service.

Wedgwood 8¾" majolica plate, c.1880

Wedgwood Argenta monkey plate

Wedgwood ivory ground monkey plate

Wedgwood Argenta majolica plate c.1879. 11 3/8”

This was made as a low platter with twig feet.

Wedgwood majolica monkey charger

Wedgwood Argenta majolica monkey teapot

Wedgwood majolica monkey teapot

Reverse of the above Wedgwood monkey teapot

These are all wonderful additions to any collection ... but if you aspire to add them to yours make sure your purse strings aren't too tight– they command a premium.

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