Overview
A vibrant, hand-painted earthenware dish featuring high-relief 'trompe l'oeil' lemons and citrus slices. This piece is a classic example of Italian majolica, designed to mimic the textures and colors of fresh…
Preliminary identification
Italian Majolica Lemon Relief Serving Dish
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Story
The Amalfi Coast has been celebrated for its massive, fragrant lemons for centuries, and this dish serves as a permanent piece of that sun-drenched heritage.
Maker / Origin
While the specific workshop isn't named, the 'Made in Italy' stamp and mold number point to the prolific ceramic hubs of Northern or Southern Italy, such as Bassano del Grappa.
Condition & Value
The piece appears to be in excellent vintage condition with no visible chips, cracks, or significant crazing. The vibrancy of the yellow pigment suggests it was kept out of direct harsh sunlight. Excellent condition for these relief pieces is rare as the raised edges are prone to chipping.
Full Research
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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 compsRegional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD