This gorgeous Victorian style ivory porcelain mantel ewer stands a monumental 15" high by 9" across the handle by 6" wide. A 'mantel ewer' is a decorative, vase-like pitcher or jug, that was traditionally displayed on a fireplace mantelpiece. While some historical ewers were functional for pouring liquids, those made for a mantel are primarily ornamental, featuring wide mouths, decorative handles, and elaborate spouts and bases, much like this one. This ewer has a very ornate pillow form with height, yet very graceful in its presentation on its raised pedestaled platform, and decorated in heavy gilding. It's very feminine presentation is exemplified by a heart-shaped panorama with dainty Violet blossoms on the front and a Violet spray on the backside. It has a slanted spout presentation, flanked with ornate leafy tendrils, which give rise to a beautifully ornate gilded leaf-shaped handle. The modeling is exquisite. It is hand-decorated by Robert Hanke with a lovely cluster of sweet Violet blossoms and foliage. The glaze colors in ivory and a soft apricot ground, are complemented with beautiful blossom decoration, with heavy ornate gilding, all complementing a 'showpiece', for sure. This ewer was sculpted by the Robert Hanke Porcelain Factory in Ladowitz, Bohemia, Austria. The company was founded in the 1890s. The mark on this reflects Robert Hanke (RH), with the red crown mark over 'RH' maker's mark on the base, along with an emblem 'Made in Austria', and the number '28'. This mantel ewer is in original condition, with some generalized factory crazing on the backside. It shows almost no handling wear, and likely was ornamental for most of its life, it presents beautifully. Overall, this Robert Hanke porcelain mantel ewer has been well-loved for more than 100 years. It makes a stunning Victorian/Art Nouveau presentation. Shipping will be based upon your zip code because of its large size. If questions, please ask.