Preliminary identification

CBK Ltd. Noureau Majolica Frog Pitcher, 1991

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

A whimsical ceramic pitcher shaped like a wide-mouthed frog sitting amidst reeds, featuring a rich, colorful glaze. This piece is a late 20th-century homage to the highly collectible Victorian majolica style, designed to bring a splash of playful naturalism to the table.

Story

In 1991, American giftware company CBK Ltd. looked back to the eccentricities of the 1800s to create this piece. Victorian diners loved 'majolica' tableware shaped like animals, finding humor in pouring drinks from a frog's open mouth.

Maker / Origin

CBK Ltd. was a prominent American home decor and giftware distributor founded in the late 20th century, known for capturing popular design trends and historical revivals. They specialized in accessible, charming reproductions of antique styles, bringing vintage aesthetics to modern suburban homes.

Condition & Value

The pitcher appears to be in good vintage condition with no visible chips or cracks in the glaze. There is minor shelf wear on the unglazed bottom rim, which is typical for its age and does not hurt the value. Value is driven primarily by decorative appeal and the popularity of frog-themed collectibles.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.