Bidspirit auction | Artistic Maiolica Seder Plate –

Artistic Maiolica Seder Plate – France, Late 19th Century - A large and exceptional Passover Seder plate, crafted in artistic maiolica (tin-glazed earthenware). France, late 19th century. This impressive plate is a work of true craftsmanship, hand-painted in vivid colors with traditional Jewish motifs. At its center appear the Hebrew words of the Seder symbols — Kadesh, Shehecheyanu, and the Ten Plagues. Around the perimeter are illustrations of King David and King Solomon, Moses and Aaron, a scene of participants reclining at the Seder table, and other vignettes inspired by the Haggadah, all painted in vibrant tones and fine detail. About Maiolica Art: The maiolica technique originated during the Italian Renaissance, characterized by white tin-glazed pottery painted with brightly colored pigments. These works, known as istoriato, often depicted narrative or mythological scenes. As the craft spread to other regions of Europe, Jewish artisans and workshops began incorporating biblical themes and Passover imagery, resulting in unique pieces such as this — merging European decorative artistry with Jewish tradition. Diameter: 47 cm. Condition: good; minor cracks and surface wear consistent with age. A rare and museum-worthy Judaica artifact, combining artistic beauty and cultural depth — a testament to Jewish creativity and resilience in 19th-century Europe. Provenance and Comparison: A similar example was sold at Sotheby’s (New York), “The Michael and Judy Steinhardt Judaica Collection, ” April 29, 2013, lot 259, for $13,125.