Old French Majolica Pitcher La Cigale & La Fourmi

Photos Submitted for Appraisal

🔍 Click to enlarge and inspect marks, signatures, and condition detailsTap to zoom and inspect details

C

Posted by Caz

10 years ago

AI Appraisal

💬 Share Your Insight 🗣️ Discuss with Community

Description

This pitcher is made of white clay, about 12" tall and hand-painted (it is packed away and I have forgotten the actual height). It is decorated on both sides with two peasant girls, one carrying a basket of vegetables, the other holding a stringed instrument (guitar-like). On one side, incised above the girls' heads is "La Cigale & La Fourmi" (The Ant and the Grasshopper-or The Ant and the Cricket, a French fable). The bottom is hand-signed with Greek letters, a red Sigma and a blue Delta, and possibly a brown Chi and Omicron. The glaze is crazed and the colors are good. There are a few chips; it appears to be old. Note: the green "flag" decoration near the rim of the pitcher is a mirror image on the two sides but the girls are not. Could the girls be formed by a mold and applied? The two sides are such a perfect replica of one another.

Category Ceramics and Porcelains

Medium earthenware

Distinguishing marks signed on bottom with Sigma, Delta and possibly Chi and Omicron

Size and dimensions of this item 12" tall, 11" lip to handle

History Unknown. If it is old, it's in really good shape. If it is 20th century, it's fair.

Log in or register to post comments

💎 Have another item? Upload photos for a free appraisal →

Collectors with this item

Want to appraise yours? Upload photos for a free appraisal →

⚠️ You have 1 free appraisal left today Upgrade for 15-30/day →

Want more from your appraisals?

Upgrade for PDF reports, more daily appraisals, and ad-free experience.

← Coffee table German wall clock →

Have another item you're curious about?

Collectors often evaluate multiple items from the same collection, estate, or find.

Appraise Another Item Quick Scan

Explore More Collector Guides

Price Records Collector Questions Value Guides

⚠️ Legal Disclaimer

This appraisal is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute a certified, licensed, or formal appraisal.

Appraisal results are generated using automated systems, including artificial intelligence, and are based solely on the information and images submitted by the user, along with publicly available data. As such, results may contain inaccuracies, omissions, or errors.

InstAppraisal does not authenticate items. No determination of authenticity, origin, materials, maker, or age should be considered verified. Many items—particularly luxury goods, watches, jewelry, coins, art, and designer products—are frequently counterfeited and may closely resemble genuine examples. Authenticity cannot be confirmed from images alone.

Any statements regarding authenticity are expressions of opinion only and should not be relied upon as fact. Independent professional authentication is strongly recommended before any purchase, sale, or valuation decision.

Appraisal values are estimates only and may vary significantly based on condition, provenance, market demand, and additional information not available at the time of review.

Appraisals must not be relied upon for insurance, legal, tax, estate, or financial purposes without independent professional verification.

InstAppraisal disclaims all liability for any losses, damages, or disputes arising from reliance on this appraisal, including transactions conducted based on the information provided.

By using this service, you acknowledge and agree that you assume all risk associated with reliance on appraisal results.

📸 Quick Scan