Pair of Italian Parcel Porcelain Rhyton Vases with Ram’s Head and Classical Motif, Gold Accents

A stunning neoclassical statement, this exquisite pair of Italian parcel-gilt porcelain rhyton vases is a masterful nod to ancient Greco-Roman form and 19th-century revivalist luxury. Each vase is sculpted in the shape of a cornucopia or rhyton—a ceremonial drinking horn—gracefully emerging from the head of a stylized ram, complete with curling horns, classical scrollwork, and rich gold detailing.

Delicately glazed in creamy white porcelain and accented with gilded laurel swags and bands, the vases rest atop squared bases rimmed in gold, offering an elevated presentation perfect for flanking a mantel, anchoring a bookshelf, or adorning a collector’s cabinet. The dramatic silhouette, detailed relief work, and high-contrast gold embellishment make these pieces a sophisticated addition to any grandmillennial, neoclassical, or European-inspired interior.

Details:

• Origin: Italy
• Material: Glazed and parcel-gilt porcelain
• Form: Rhyton / cornucopia with ram’s head base
• Sold as a pair
• Square bases with gold accents
• Elegant raised relief details with gold embellishments
• Height: approx. [insert dimensions if available]
• Excellent vintage/antique condition; minimal wear consistent with age

Each measures approximately 8" tall x 7.25" wide x 3.75" deep.  

Provenance:

From the Estate of Martha Gay Kokernot Ratliff, Austin, TX  (1942–2023)

Martha Gay Kokernot Ratliff was a celebrated Texas tastemaker, interior designer, and historic preservationist whose legacy is woven into the cultural fabric of the state. With a discerning eye and deep devotion to the decorative arts, she founded a successful design firm and was featured in numerous national publications.

Her passion extended far beyond interiors—she helped restore the Paramount Theatre, co-founded the Austin Lyric Opera, and served on the Texas Historical Commission, working closely with hercdear friend then First Lady Linda Gale White on the Texas Main Street Program. She was also a dedicated supporter of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Preservation Austin, and Friends of the Governor’s Mansion.

Her collection reflects a life of cultivated beauty, cultural stewardship, and Southern elegance.

Pieces like this are why I love sourcing the South and the great state of Texas for vintage and antique estate decor…shopping estate sales, auctions, charity thrift stores, and antique malls to carefully curate a collection of fantastic finds that have and will stand the test of time.

$547  INCLUDES INSURED SHIPPING in the continental US.

🩷Vintage and antique items have some wear associated with years of age and use which only adds to their overall charm. Please see all the pics as they are considered part of the description.

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