Extremely Rare 18th-Century Wedgwood / Neale / Palmer Black Basalt Console Vase – Dying Cleopatra & Cardinal de Richelieu Cartouches
Highly Polished Finish – Museum-Level Historical Interest
An extraordinary and seldom-seen 18th-century black basalt console vase, attributed to Wedgwood, Neale, or Palmer—three influential Staffordshire makers of the era. This highly polished basalt piece features deeply historical cartouches: one depicting the Dying Cleopatra and the other Cardinal de Richelieu.
While the Cleopatra medallion is shown here for reference only, the vase itself embodies strong neoclassical aesthetics, with fine engine-turned detailing on the base and delicate garland motifs.
Dimensions (approx):
Height (to top of lid): 9 inches
Width: about 5 inches
Condition:
Excellent condition for its age and delicate material.
The lid and base are likely replacements—the base appears consistent with Palmer basalt vases.
Smooth to the touch, with a deeply polished finish, typical of premium-quality basalt wares from the period.
Markings:
Impressed WEDGWOOD with the letter A.
A truly rare and evocative object—perfect for serious collectors of historic portrait cartouches, black basalt Wedgwood, or neoclassical-themed ceramics.
