Maw & Co (1862-1883) - Monumental (3ft diameter/91cm), unique and rare Arts & Crafts/Aesthetic Movement exhibition lustreware wall charger produced at the Broseley factory in Shropshire (stamped - dating to 1862-83).

Neo-classical theme in earthy purples and citrus shades depicting Medusa head with snakes atop brazier surrounded by sprigs of pomegranates, circumference adorned with Vitruvian waves.

Possibly a Walter Crane hand painted piece..Crane is known for neo-classical themed art pottery, particularly with Maw & Co and for depictions of Medusa head, pomegranates and other citrus fruit in his compositions.

Maw and Co by the 1880s had become the largest producer of ceramic tiles in the world, showcasing their high quality of work at exhibitions in London, Paris and Philadelphia with art pottery such as this 3ft diameter charger, collaborating with artists including Lewis Foreman Day, William De Morgan and Walter Crane.

A similar charger was made for the 1889 Exposition Universelle, as can be seen at the Ironbridge Gorge Museum. A slightly smaller, yet still of impressive size (71cm diameter), was exhibited in the earlier 1851 Great Exhibition. Very possibly, this piece was the result of an exercise to showcase a yet larger design destined for the international exhibitions in London (1862), Paris (1867) or Philadelphia (1876).

By repute, this charger, and another (whereabouts currently unknown) were rescued by workers from the Maw & Co factory upon its closure. Given the scarcity of works of this size by Maw & Co, it is very possible that this charger was one of those rescued.

Art ceramics by Maw and Co. are rare. The record for the factory is £42,000 in 2005.

Please refer to images that illustrate condition. Main point of note is the firing crack that appears to have been stapled at the factory at time of production.

Other pieces in listing images; Meiji dragons & butterflies (61cm) cloisonne chargers, Christopher Dresser/Thomas Jekyll bonze/cast iron fire dogs + doorstop (ex Peter Rose & Albert Gallichan) and 'Three Graces' bronzes by Fredda Brilliant all available in separate running listings.

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Can also drop off in/around London if pre arranged or welcome to collect.

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(ALREADY A BIG PIECE, WILL BE MORE SO ONCE BOXED/CRATED. . SUGGEST £750 AS A MINIMUM GUIDE, HOWEVER WILL OF COURSE VARY DEPENDING ON DESTINATION, ESPECIALLY IF NEEDS TO BE AIR FREIGHTED)

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