Pair Antique Wedgwood Black Basalt Vases England Late 18th Century Circa 1775

This exceptional pair of antique black basalt vases was made by Wedgwood & Bentley in the late 18th century, circa 1775. The vases are sculpted in deep solid relief with bacchanalian boys in lively motion, a classical motif symbolizing liberation from societal order and the tension between chaos and control. The vases have a cylindrical form rising from a square-footed base. They echo neoclassical architecture with elegant scroll handles, a grooved finial, and vertical fluting around the shoulder. The sculptural modeling is a hallmark of Wedgwood & Bentley’s finest black basalt work. Marks: Each vase is marked “WEDGWOOD & BENTLEY ETRURIA,” used between 1769 and 1780. Dimensions: 11.5″ tall x 5.25″ across the handles x 3.25″ square base Condition: Excellent Price: $6,000 The factory at Etruria in Staffordshire began producing black basalt in 1769, quickly becoming the leading name in neoclassical ornamental ceramics admired by aristocratic patrons. Key Features: • Pair of antique black basalt vases by Wedgwood & Bentley • Made circa 1775 during the peak of neoclassical fashion • Deep relief frieze of bacchanalian boys • Scroll handles and fluted architectural elements • Marked “WEDGWOOD & BENTLEY ETRURIA” (1769–1780) • Superb example of 18th-century English neoclassical design