An ornamental majolica object of undocumented original function, characterized by a lobed body with two cylindrical vessels at the front and a wide ring handle. The surface is enlivened by sculptural motifs of pods and plant reliefs, while the background features a highly stylized owl, recognizable by its large spiral eyes and plumage rendered with concentric elements. The rich green glaze, punctuated by crackle, features metallic highlights that accentuate the modeling and lend the surface an iridescent effect. The object’s unique shape has prompted various functional interpretations over time, primarily as an aviary basin and as a candle holder; however, neither of these two interpretations is currently supported by documentation from the manufacturer or specialist sources.

Borgo San Lorenzo (Florence);  1920s/30s.