Royal Doulton Vase Hand Painted Portrait Goddess Maiden Art Nouveau H Bettley

  

This exquisite piece of pottery is a rare treasure from the Art Nouveau era, crafted by the prestigious Royal Doulton company, c. The cream-colored vase has a graceful ovoid shape that showcases the stunning hand-painted portrait by A. Dix, one of the most celebrated decorators at Royal Doulton during this period.

Dix was known for his skillful and delicate paintings of women and children, often in classical or pastoral scenes. The portrait depicts a beautiful Greek goddess, most likely Artemis, the goddess of the hunt and nature. Flowing golden hair, and donning a sheer gossamer gown that reveals her slender figure. Dix's masterful use of light and color suggest movement, which renders this vase an exceptional objet d'art.

Artemis exudes a truly ethereal presence with her piercing gaze, and serene smile. Viewers are challenged to unravel the enigma behind those striking eyes. The vessel is also adorned with crossed English hunting horns, pink flowers, and a battle axe, symbolizing Artemis' connection to the wild and her prowess as a hunter.

The mouth and base of the vase are embellished with a geometric gilt pattern that adds elegance and contrast to the pastel scene. Excellent, preowned condition with no chips, cracks, or crazing.

Stamped on the bottom with Royal Doulton's standard mark, in green. In 1901, Royal Doulton introduced a new Doulton mark with the lion, crown and intersecting D motif. " The new mark and use of the name'"Royal Doulton" as opposed to "Doulton celebrates the grant of the Royal Warrant to Doulton by King Edward VII in 1901. From 1901 to 1922, the standard mark appears with the words "Royal Doulton" and "England, " which is demonstrated on this very rare vase.

Dix possibly decorated this piece under the supervision of prolific Royal Doulton painter, Herbert "Harry" Bettley. This is assumed from the "HB" prefix above the Royal Doulton mark, which may be the initials of Bettley. Please reach out with any questions, or reasonable offers.