rare turn of the century St Cléments majolica “Terrier Tom” coin bank

Add whimsy and history to your space with this latest majolica find we’re so excited to share! A rare turn of the century French “Terrier Tom” coin bank, beautifully crafted by Saint Clément pottery—a favoured supplier for Marie Antoinette dating back to 1758, and known for their fantastic majolica animal creations. 

In excellent antique condition with the presence of an extremely small chip to the glaze on the left side of the pup’s cheek. 

The History of Majolica 

Majolica, an exquisite ceramic art form, traces its origins to Renaissance Italy, where the technique of applying colorful lead glazes on earthenware flourished. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that the majolica craze swept through England and France, leaving an indelible mark on the world of decorative arts.

Introduced in the 1850s, English majolica gained prominence for its intricate relief-molded designs and vibrant glazes. Inspired by nature, these wares featured botanical motifs, marine life, and mythical creatures, embodying the Victorian fascination with the exotic and whimsical.  

The excitement over majolica spread across the channel to France, and factories embraced majolica—also known as barbotine—with fervor. They created playful pieces with that classic majolica burst of lush, rich colour that captured the essence of the era's romanticism.

The competition between English and French artisans fueled a creative renaissance, resulting in some of the most splendid and sought-after majolica pieces that continue to be treasured today.

dimensions: 4"W x 4.5"D x 3.5"H