Pair of large polychrome porcelain vases, Viennese manufactory, late 19th century

Pair of large polychrome porcelain vases, Viennese manufactory, late 19th century. Austria Polychrome porcelain and gilded bronze Dimensions: h. 90 x w. 40 cm. Base: 30 cm. This splendid pair of large painted porcelain urns is characterized by the quality of its decorations: two classical scenes, finely crafted and rich in detail, occupy the body of the vases on both the front and back. The vases and their lids are an intense red, embellished with elaborate gilded decorations. The handles are zoomorphic: two gilded snakes coil their turns, creating a solemn grip. The vases rest on tall pedestals, painted with floral and grotesque motifs in gold, white, and purple. The ancient imperial Viennese porcelain manufactory was renowned throughout Europe for the quality and refinement of its ceramics. Like these two examples, the objects produced frequently featured sumptuous gilding, polychrome enamels, and mythological scenes.