Johann Pilar

JOHANN PILAR (Vienna, active in the late nineteenth century-early twentieth century).
Large "Mermaid" vase, ca. 1900.
Polychrome terracotta.
Stampson the reverse.
Measurements: 46 cm (height) x 35 cm (largest diameter).

This large terracotta vase, with a green-toned polychrome, features a prominent relief decoration: a mermaid emerging amidst waves and holding a flower. The piece bears the signature "J. Pilar, Rothneusiedl, Wien, Reproduction Reserve" on the base, linking it to Johann Pilar's pottery studio, located in Oberlaa (near Rothneusiedl), a suburb of Vienna. The "Reproduction" and "Made in Austria" stamps indicate that it was manufactured for export.

The Johann Pilar studio was founded in 1898 and eventually employed 50 workers. In addition to vases, they produced a wide range of goods, including busts, lamps, clocks and mirrors, and had sales representation in German cities such as Berlin and Leipzig.