While a great deal of majolica was of a figural nature, most was produced to fulfill a specified function in the Victorian home. Purely decorative majolica figures and figural groups are uncommon, but are certainly among the most striking pieces produced. Of particular importance are a number of large scale animal figures modeled by Paul Comolera for Minton and the French manufacturer Choisy-le-Roi. The monumental Minton Peacock stands six feet tall and was one of the most iconic and spectacular pieces of majolica displayed at international expositions. Other figures were produced for Minton and Wedgwood by noted artisans of the period including A.E.Carrier-Belleuse, Pierre-Emile Jeannest, and William Beattie. In some instances the modeler can be documented by either a signature on the piece or from archival materials; unfortunately many are unattributed.

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• Pinterest: Figural Majolica