I just purchased a cool-looking 13″ ceramic vase or [i]ewer[/i] for $6 marked with the Rudostaldt Ware mark (“RS” in a diamond with a crown) used by Lazarus Straus & Sons between 1885 and 1924. I am trying to date this piece via style, if possible. This vase is unlike others with the same mark in that the others typically had beautiful hand painting. This one is beautiful in form, but has little in the way of decorative artwork, and is distinctly different in style. Would this form be distinct enough to classify it in the “art nouveau” style, or a bit later in the “art deco” style, or is that a distinction without a difference? The bottom of the ewer has the number 1771 incised, which may be a mold mark? Any discussion would be appreciated.
I am not much for the flowers and stuff on some of these pieces so I really like the classic lines of this ewer/vase !! If I had to describe it Art Deco would be what I would use !! The geometric line of the handle would fit that era !! Art Nouveau is usually more flowing lines and nature inspired !! That number would likely be the mold number as you thought !!
