Medieval Aquamanile, Knight On Horseback Second

Details

Originally a Persian tradition, aquamanilia were first made out of metal, typically copper or bronze, and were used to pour water for hand washing during religious and secular rituals. These elaborated vessels, shaped like animals and humans, were a significant part of Medieval society as hundreds of examples survive and are on display in museums worldwide. 

When this tradition reached Europe in the twelfth century, lasting till the fifteenth century, many beautiful metal examples were made for high-status houses. Not to be outdone, more humble households would have one made of pottery, and the potters working at this time would have taken inspiration from the metal examples they had seen.  

Made in the style of Scarborough ware and inspired by a sherd from the collections at Hull Museum. This pottery style was all the rage around the 13th-14th century. Lustrous green-glazed Scarborough ware has been found throughout North England and Scotland and is a charming addition to any table.   

Slight seconds mean the item has some minor defects, such as cracking or staining, but the item is otherwise fine. This aquamanile has a crack around the circumference of the horse's belly, which might affect the vessel's capacity to hold water but does not significantly impact its decorative aesthetic. Please see the images.

Materials

Terracotta clay with green glaze

Dimensions

Approx. 280 mm tall, 320 mm long, 105 mm wide

Production

This replica Roman pot has been hand-made in Northumberland by Potted History, based on an original artefact. It has been fired to a temperature between 800 & 1000 Centigrade to emulate the same techniques the original potters would have employed nearly two thousand years ago. This process often results in surface colour and texture variations, as is common with the original Roman pottery and gives each piece its unique character.

Postage

All items are sent using a second-class postal service; if you wish to have an item sent first-class, please get in touch with us for a quote. Many Thanksaquamanilia