Wedgwood Black Basalt Putti Bowl Early 18th C Antique 13cm Rare

Indulge in the refinement of early English ceramics with this Wedgwood Early 18th Century Black Basalt Putti Bowl, an exceptionally rare and evocative example of the firm’s celebrated basalt ware. Combining sculptural elegance with historic charm, this decorative bowl is a superb acquisition for the discerning collector of fine pottery and antique Wedgwood.

Crafted in high-quality black basalt, this piece exemplifies the dense, fine-grained stoneware that made Wedgwood famous among connoisseurs of neoclassical design. The bowl is adorned with delicately modelled putti figures, their soft, rounded forms standing in beautiful contrast to the crisp, dark body of the basalt. This interplay of light and shadow across the relief decoration lends the piece a quietly dramatic presence, ideal for a curated display cabinet, console table, or mantel.

Dating from the early 18th century, the bowl captures the spirit of the era’s fascination with classical motifs, mythology, and allegory. Putti – those playful, cherubic figures – were widely used in fine decorative arts to evoke themes of love, innocence, and joy. Here, they are rendered with a refinement and precision that speaks to Wedgwood’s dedication to artistry, proportion, and technical excellence.

Measuring approximately 13 cm in length (side to side), this compact yet striking bowl is perfectly suited to both intimate and formal interiors. Its modest scale makes it an ideal accent piece: it can sit elegantly on a side table, nestle within a cabinet of curiosities, or serve as the focal point of a small arrangement of antique ceramics. The matte black basalt surface pairs beautifully with both traditional and contemporary décor, lending a touch of understated luxury to any setting.

This is an extremely rare example of early Wedgwood basalt, highly desirable for serious collectors and enthusiasts of British pottery. Pieces of this age and type seldom appear on the market, particularly with such finely detailed putti decoration. It offers not only aesthetic pleasure but also a tangible connection to the early history of one of the world’s most prestigious ceramic manufacturers.

Condition:
The bowl shows a repair through the body, visible upon close inspection. Aside from this restoration, the piece is in good overall condition for its age. The existing repair makes this an excellent candidate for further professional restoration if desired, or it may be enjoyed as is as a rare display piece with authentic antique character. Collectors who appreciate originality and historical integrity will value the survival of this bowl, given its age and scarcity.

This antique Wedgwood black basalt putti bowl is ideal for:

• Advanced collectors of Wedgwood and English ceramics
• Decorators seeking a distinctive, museum-style accent piece
• Lovers of neoclassical and early 18th century design
• Those building a curated collection of rare, historically significant pottery

Whether displayed alongside other basalt wares, paired with creamware and jasperware, or set alone as a statement object, this early Wedgwood putti bowl exudes timeless elegance, rarity, and sophistication. Its combination of sculptural relief, deep black body, and historic provenance makes it a truly special addition to any serious collection of fine porcelain and pottery.