Antique Massarelos Pitcher - Asiatic Pheasant Transferware Pattern, Brown

Antique Portuguese Massarelos Jug - Asiatic Pheasant Pattern on Transferware

Authentic antique Portuguese jug from the historic Massarelos Pottery Factory (founded in 1766 in Porto), featuring the classic "Asiatic Pheasant" pattern in brown transferware on a cream background. A historical piece representing the tradition of Porto Alegre ceramics with oriental inspiration.

Part Characteristics

• Manufacturer: Massarello Port - Massarelos Pottery Factory, Porto (founded in 1766)
• Pattern: Asiatic Pheasant - classic chinoiserie-inspired design
• Technique: Transferware (intaglio) in sepia brown on earthenware.
• Decoration: Pheasants, peonies, chrysanthemums and oriental foliage.
• Shape: Pitcher/bowl with a domed body, wide spout, volute handle, and lid with a floral knob.

The Asiatic Pheasant Pattern

The "Asiatic Pheasant" pattern is one of the most iconic and enduring transferware designs in the history of European ceramics, inspired by Chinese decorative art. Produced by over 60 different factories in the UK and Europe during the second half of the 19th and early 20th centuries, it became one of the most popular and recognizable patterns.

The composition features exotic pheasants among lush peonies, chrysanthemums, and oriental foliage, creating a naturalistic scene of great beauty and balance. The decoration generously covers the body of the jar, the lid, and even the handle, with delicate floral motifs that intertwine harmoniously. The rim of the lid features a geometric mesh pattern that complements the main decoration.

Transferware Technique (Calcography)

The transferware or intaglio technique consists of transferring a design engraved on copper to the surface of the ceramic using tissue paper. This revolutionary process made it possible to reproduce complex designs with great detail and consistency, democratizing access to decorated pieces that were previously hand-painted.

In this piece, the sepia-brown transferware on a cream-colored earthenware background creates a soft and elegant contrast, characteristic of Portuguese productions inspired by English style from that period.

About the Massarelos Factory

The Massarelos Pottery Factory was founded in Porto in 1766, becoming one of the most important Portuguese ceramic manufacturers. Throughout its history, it has had several periods and owners, producing quality tableware that followed the European trends of the time, including the popular transferware technique.

The "MASSARELLO PORT" mark on the base, with crown and laurels, identifies this piece as an authentic product of the Porto factory and attests to its historical origin.

Period and Dating

Given the popularity of the Asiatic Pheasant pattern and the brand's style, this piece likely dates from the late 19th or early 20th century, the golden age of transferware production in Portugal.

State of Conservation

Antique jug in good condition for its age (over 100 years), with signs of vintage use that lend authenticity and historical character. The transferware decoration remains well preserved with good definition of the motifs. Original lid included. Minor signs of natural wear consistent with a piece of historical use.

An ideal piece for collectors of Portuguese transferware, for those who appreciate historical ceramics with oriental patterns, or for decorative use in classic settings. A testament to the ceramic tradition of Porto and the influence of chinoiserie aesthetics in Europe.