Cobalt Splashed Bellarmine Bottle, 3 Medallion, Amsterdam Coat of Arms 16/17thC For Sale

A rare and attractive German Bellarmine bottle dating from circa 1580–1620. This salt-glazed stoneware vessel features the characteristic bearded mask to the neck and is further distinguished by vibrant cobalt-blue splashed decoration. To the body are three applied medallions bearing the coat of arms of Amsterdam, reflecting the important commercial links between the Rhineland potteries and the Dutch Republic during the late 16th and early 17th centuries.

Bellarmine bottles of this period were widely used for the storage and transport of liquids, yet examples retaining strong cobalt decoration and multiple heraldic armorials are particularly sought after.

23.5cm

Condition: Chipped foot. Restored: this has been broken and put back together with fill along some of the joins. Large restored chip to the handle and area of triangle fill where a sherd is missing. An attractive example nonetheless.