The urge to bring natural touches to the table seems to be universal and green glazed majolica proves ideal to satisfy this instinct. 

In this modest size dessert dish, a single grape leaf, complete with realistic veining, has been appropriated directly from nature as the basis of the design.  A low relief cluster of grapes and vine at one end provides an appropriate handle. The result is an object equally at home on a rustic country dresser or a contemporary black granite counter top.   

We estimate this piece dates from the last quarter of the nineteenth century. It may have been inspired by a similar grape leaf pattern introduced by Wedgwood.  The impressed numerals could indicate either English or French origins. 

While the design is a a product of the fascination with majolica which started around the 1850's, the popularity of moulded tablewares based on fruit, vegetable or foliage forms dates back to the eighteenth century. Compare this dish to a much earlier salt-glazed relish dish also available from Seekers (final photo).