Vase with Mistletoe Amphora 1899/1900

Around the turn of the century, mistletoe became a popular decorative element among artists. Our ivory porcelain amphora vase features this motif, with a band of mistletoe encircling the base. The three handles and the finely open-worked neck are designed in the shapes of mistletoe branches, leaves, and flowers.

The decoration, painted by Nikolaus Kahäuser, is done in a glaze of matte ochre, green, and pink tones—a specialty of the Amphora works. This color combination first attracted attention at the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago. The green and pink were intended to symbolize heaven and earth and were often used in designs with Japanese influences, especially in compositions featuring a sun rising from a layer of mist. Later, it was also used in other designs with floral and landscape motifs. In this vase, violet morning glories are accentuated with matte gold, adding depth and elegance to the overall design.