This large and beautifully modeled majolica jardiniere and underplate were hand-painted by Minton in Stoke-upon-Trent, Staffordshire, circa 1880. The piece presents a lively design of raised oak leaves and acorns in shades of green and golden brown that stand out against the luminous turquoise ground. The twisting oak branch handles are wonderfully sculptural, merging naturalistic detail with bold Victorian design. A band of alternating cream and lavender-blue forms encircles the body above a woven rope border that continues along the rim and base, lending a sense of completeness and harmony to the composition. The interior is glazed in soft lavender pink, an elegant contrast to the vivid exterior. Measuring 17 inches across the handles, this is a work of exceptional size and presence, as well as a superb example of Minton’s technical mastery and artistry in majolica. Dimensions: 17″ across handles x 15″ diameter x 13″ tallCondition: ExcellentDecoration: Oak leaves and acorns in relief on turquoise ground, twisted oak branch handles, lavender-pink interiorMaterial: Glazed earthenware (majolica)Style: Victorian NaturalisticOrigin: England, Stoke-upon-TrentDate: Circa 1880      Notable Details: Large-scale Minton majolica jardiniere with matching underplate Vivid turquoise glaze contrasted with hand-painted oak leaves and acorns Exceptional modeling and color typical of Minton’s finest 19th-century work Twisted branch handles and rope-molded rims add sculptural refinement