Rare crater vases with handles

Rare crater vases with handles

Crater vases with maskerons were a popular form of porcelain or ceramic vases during the Biedermeier era. These were decorated with a special technique called “scratch decoration” or Kratzdekor, developed by the ceramic manufacturer Joseph Fischer in Vienna and was in fashion from around 1825 to 1860.

Such Crater vases from the Biedermeier period in Vienna can have a high collector’s value depending on their condition, size, age, rarity, and manufacturer.

The term “maskeron” comes from the French word “mascarons”. Maskeron is used to describe decorative masks that can be seen on this rare Crater vases.

Over time, the term evolved to “maskeron face” to describe the use of faces as a decorative element.

Maskeron faces can be found in many different styles and cultures such as Baroque, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco. They can be made from various materials such as stone, wood, metal, or ceramic, as seen in these vases made of high-quality porcelain.

In art history, maskeron faces are often seen as an example of the use of decorative elements to adorn works of art, as with these rare Crater vases.

Imagine this rare crater vases on top of this exquisite Biedermeier cherry cabinet.

Biedermeier at RSA Wiesbaden

You can find a wide selection of Biedermeier furniture and decorative art pieces. 
Regine Schmitz-Avila – your Biedermeier specialist for cabinets, tables, and chests.