Antique Maiolica Plate From The Late 16th Century With Putto And Toy (pinwheel?) - Urbino

Antique Maiolica Plate from the Late 16th Century with Putto and Toy (Pinwheel?)
Urbino or Pesaro

Diameter 35,5cm.

In a period wooden frame.

Old restoration.

This splendid maiolica plate, dating from the late 16th century, represents an authentic masterpiece of the late Renaissance, attributed to the artisans of Urbino or Pesaro in the Marche region of Italy. The maiolica is framed in a richly carved and gilded wooden frame, typical of the period. The plate, which can be described as a tondino or a saucer, has a diameter of 24.5 cm without the frame and 35.5 cm with the frame.

Description of the Plate

The central part of the plate, concave, is decorated with a rare and fascinating representation of a putto, painted in monochromatic shades of blue. The putto is depicted with an ancient toy: a pinwheel, and the artist's mastery is evident in the precision and delicacy of the details, achieved using various shades of blue.



The outer part of the plate is adorned with grotesque decorations, including figures of dragons and mascarons. These elements are characteristic of the Renaissance style and show the influence of ancient Roman decorations. The decorations are rendered in vivid colors, including cobalt blue, yellow, ochre, and sapphire blue, giving the plate a vibrant and dynamic appearance.

Condition and Provenance

Despite the presence of ancient restorations, all the pieces of the plate are original. On the back of the plate, there is a label from an old collection, now illegible, attesting to its importance and collection history.

This plate is a magnificent example of the artisanal craftsmanship of the period and represents a valuable testimony to the art of Renaissance maiolica from the Marche region.