Wedgwood takes a very restrained approach to the sprig decoration on this light blue jaspe...

Wedgwood takes a very restrained approach to the sprig decoration on this light blue jasper dip vase. Evidently it was felt that nothing was to detract from the dramatic silhouette of the form with its pedestal foot and simple curled handles. The major sprig groups which decorate each side of the piece are "The Dipping of Achilles" and "Psyche Bound to a Tree." Additional sprig detail includes florets in the curl of the handle, a border of laurel and berries around the shoulder and lotus leaves around the foot, base and rim.

Robin Reilly, Wedgwood, Volume II illustrates this vase form among the "Plates from the '1...

Robin Reilly, Wedgwood, Volume II illustrates this vase form among the "Plates from the '1878' Illustrated Cagtalogue of Ornamental Shapes", Plate 941, p. 541, Shape 1015