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Ernst Wahliss Porcelain Figurine - Elegant Lady, Vienna Mark, c. 1897-1906
A beautifully modelled antique porcelain figurine depicting a refined young lady in mid-movement as she delicately adjusts the bow of her bonnet. The figure is dynamically posed, with refined movement and graceful balance. Standing upon a naturalistic base with carved scrollwork and rustic fencing, the composition is carefully balanced, with dynamic posture and flowing drapery contributing to a sense of kinetic energy and visual rhythm.
The figure's attire is sculpted with precision, her gown gathered with ribbon at the waist and accented by a large bow at the back. A subtle contrast between matte and gloss finishes is employed to create visual texture, particularly around the bodice, belt, and hem. Gilded accents are applied sparingly along the trims to enhance the richness of the palette.
Painted in soft shades of sage, rosewood, and ivory, the surface is delicately shaded to emphasise the folds of the fabric and the natural tones of the skin. Her hat, with its pronounced silhouette and floral plume, frames the composition and draws attention to the finely modelled facial features.
This piece was produced by the renowned Ernst Wahliss, a leading Viennese porcelain and ceramic retailer who founded his business in 1863. Following his death in 1900, his sons Hans and Erich Wahliss acquired 600 moulds from the Imperial and Royal Porcelain Manufactory of Vienna and began producing high-quality porcelain figures. This figurine bears the Wien crown mark and dates from 1897 to 1906, when the factory was operating under their ownership.
Historical Background
Ernst Wahliss was a major figure in 19th-century Austrian porcelain. His success as a dealer allowed him to acquire the Alfred Stellmacher factory in Turn-Teplitz (now Teplice, Czech Republic), turning it into a centre for fine art pottery and porcelain. Under his sons' leadership, the company shifted towards reproducing high-quality Viennese porcelain using historical moulds, many of which were originally produced by the Imperial Manufactory. These pieces are admired for their artistic quality and elegance, blending Art Nouveau influences with classical Viennese form.
Measurements
Height: 32 cm
Weight: 745 g
Condition
Very good antique condition. Minor wear to the paint and gilding, consistent with age. The tip of the right pinkie is chipped, and there is a glued restoration to the wooden fence behind her. Please study all photos carefully as they form an important part of the description.
Shipping & Packaging
Item will be sent fully tracked and insured.
Shipping cost includes labour, packaging, and postage.
If you're searching for specific antique items for your collection, feel free to contact us — we regularly replenish our inventory by request.
Ernst Wahliss Antique Porcelain Figurine: Elegant Lady with Bonnet, Vienna Mark
£295.00
A beautifully modelled antique porcelain figurine depicting a refined young lady in mid-movement as she delicately adjusts the bow of her bonnet. The figure is dynamically posed, with refined movement and graceful balance. Standing upon a naturalistic base with carved scrollwork and rustic fencing, the composition is carefully balanced, with dynamic posture and flowing drapery contributing to a sense of kinetic energy and visual rhythm.
The figure's attire is sculpted with precision, her gown gathered with ribbon at the waist and accented by a large bow at the back. A subtle contrast between matte and gloss finishes is employed to create visual texture, particularly around the bodice, belt, and hem. Gilded accents are applied sparingly along the trims to enhance the richness of the palette.
Painted in soft shades of sage, rosewood, and ivory, the surface is delicately shaded to emphasise the folds of the fabric and the natural tones of the skin. Her hat, with its pronounced silhouette and floral plume, frames the composition and draws attention to the finely modelled facial features.
This piece was produced by the renowned Ernst Wahliss, a leading Viennese porcelain and ceramic retailer who founded his business in 1863. Following his death in 1900, his sons Hans and Erich Wahliss acquired 600 moulds from the Imperial and Royal Porcelain Manufactory of Vienna and began producing high-quality porcelain figures. This figurine bears the Wien crown mark and dates from 1897 to 1906, when the factory was operating under their ownership.
Historical Background
Ernst Wahliss was a major figure in 19th-century Austrian porcelain. His success as a dealer allowed him to acquire the Alfred Stellmacher factory in Turn-Teplitz (now Teplice, Czech Republic), turning it into a centre for fine art pottery and porcelain. Under his sons' leadership, the company shifted towards reproducing high-quality Viennese porcelain using historical moulds, many of which were originally produced by the Imperial Manufactory. These pieces are admired for their artistic quality and elegance, blending Art Nouveau influences with classical Viennese form.
Measurements
Height: 32 cm
Weight: 745 g
Condition
Very good antique condition. Minor wear to the paint and gilding, consistent with age. The tip of the right pinkie is chipped, and there is a glued restoration to the wooden fence behind her. Please study all photos carefully as they form an important part of the description.
Shipping & Packaging
Item will be sent fully tracked and insured.
Shipping cost includes labour, packaging, and postage.
If you're searching for specific antique items for your collection, feel free to contact us — we regularly replenish our inventory by request.