An early 19th century English rosso antico stoneware Egyptian revival sugar bowl with terra cotta colored body with raised, stylized geometric lotus ornament and applied or sprigged, black Egyptian motifs, including large falcon's wings, alternating with sphinxes, Horus-like figures and various animals, a seated dog, an owl and crocodile, with black crocodile finial. The fashion for Egyptian themed wares was inspired by Horatio Nelson’s victory at the Battle of the Nile. Wedgwood and other makers responded with a series of teawares that made use of ancient hieroglyphics, although at the time these were purely decorative as their meanings weren't discovered until 1822. The crocodile finial is thought to refer to a remark made by Nelson’s mistress, who said that he ought to be made ‘Baron Crocodile’ because of his exploits at the battle in Aboukir Bay.

Height: 4"    Diameter: 6 3/4"

$1470