Ernst Wahliss
Silver Net C0318
Inventory NumberC0318Size
7 1/2" H x 6" WMaterial
EarthenwarePeriod
Art NouveauCountry of Origin
AustriaYear Made
1911Status
availableCondition
minor hairline
Description
An earthenware covered box attributed to Karl Klaus for the Ernst Wahliss "Serapis-Wahliss" line, this charming piece features delicate hand-painted decoration in cobalt, silver, and green over a white glaze. The lid is embellished with a hexagonal pattern of beaded silver lines that form a playful screen over stylized white and green flowers. Subtle in its stylistic allusions, the ornament of the base resembles an antique colonnade (pared down to schematic lines and rhythmic repetitions) supporting an architectural dome. Others may see magnified cells, Persian spirals, or an arrangement of Turkish evil eye beads. Ernst Wahliss's use of the name Serapis (a Hellenistic-Egyptian god) for the "Serapis-Fayence" and "Serapis-Wahliss" lines, implies intentional links to antiquity. Mark: Manufacturer's stamp / written in gold ink F9601 S9673.
