Victorian Miniature Potichomania or Decalcomania Jar Circa 1860 RARE Chintz Fabric Folk Art

We are thrilled to offer this rare little item of English decorative folk art that dates to the 1860s. If like us you like the rare and quirky, this will be of interest.

This small and ancient glass jar was decorated using a technique similar to the Decalcomania or Potichomania technique that was so very popular during the 18th century, later revived by the Georgians and Victorians in the 19th century. The technique was a popular craft for ladies to enjoy. Basically they would buy a pre-printed sheet of motifs from the stationer. They would then cut out these motifs and cleverly apply them with size (bonding agent) to the inside of glass vases and jars. They would then fill the jar/vase with plaster, or a white liquid, swill it around and pour it out. They would then be left with a white vase that resembled transfer decorated porcelain for a fraction of the price!

Book ref: page 325 The Accomplished Lady, A History of Genteel Pursuits C 1660-1860 by Noel Riley. Also, page 68 of Collecting Georgian and Victorian Crafts, June Field. Also a 19th century glass rolling pin that we are retailing made by a similar technique

You will notice that we said our little jar was a similar technique? The difference being that our ancient glass jar with pontil base had tiny motifs applied to the inside that were cut from Chintz fabric!! The glass jar was then filled with white salts. The entire jar then secured with a cork.

Size: 5 inch tall (13 cm) by base width 1 inch (2.5 cm).

Condition: Good and sound. Minor areas to two top motifs where the salt has corroded the fabric motifs.

A super are little folk art curio for your cabinet or shelf.

Item id:16217