Royal Vienna Porcelain Covered Urn
Austria, c. 1880s
Porcelain, cobalt glaze, gilt highlights, polychrome enamel
Height: 24 inches
This monumental lidded urn exemplifies the peak of Royal Vienna porcelain production during the late 19th century. Centered on the vessel’s body is a hand-painted neoclassical scene, possibly inspired by Roman military history or theatrical spectacle, rendered with luminous color and intricate brushwork. The pedestal base features another finely painted composition—perhaps a mythological allegory—set within an arched cartouche.
Framing the scenes are extensive gilded decorations and twin handles in the form of stylized satyr masks, underscoring the Classical Revival style so prized by the Austrian elite. The factory’s underglaze blue beehive mark, applied to the base, affirms its Royal Vienna origin—a mark of distinction among European porcelain houses.
