Pineapple Palissy Majolica Egg Cup

This small footed egg cup is modeled entirely in the form of an artichoke, rendered in tin-glazed earthenware. The open receptacle at the top is formed by tightly overlapping pointed bracts glazed in graduating tones of verdigris green, transitioning to deep ochre and brown toward the base of the head. The stem is rendered as a ribbed stalk in dark grey-brown, flanked by three large modeled artichoke leaves in green sweeping outward. The base itself is glazed in a deep cobalt blue with a fine radiating line texture and bears a small applied floral rosette at the stems foot in between every leave. No visible maker's mark. 

Good condition. Minor glaze wear to the base rim consistent with age and use. No chips or repairs visible. 

Period:  Circa 1880–1900

Provenance:  France

Materials:  Lead-glazed earthenware

Manufacturer:  Unidentified

Dimensions:  13.5H x 7W cm | 5.3H x 2.7W in