From:Williamson Art Gallery and Museum

Name/TitleDella Robbia John the Baptist Plaque

About this objectA Della Robbia relief plaque of rectangular shape glazed in yellow, green and white, with a traditional Della Robbia blue background. It depicts John the Baptist, after a sculpture by Donatello.

Marianne de Caluwé was a senior artist at the pottery. She was born in Toxteth and started her career as a freelance sculptor, before marrying Belgian artist Emile de Caluwé in 1876. Together they started a religious statuary business, which merged with Della Robbia Pottery in 1900. Through this merger, Emile and Marianne became the chief sculptors and modellers. Even though her husband died soon after the merger, Marianne remained at the pottery until she ultimately sold her shares in 1905, whereafter she struggled financially and passed away in a women's shelter. She left a legacy of impressive work and was one of the most technically accomplished artists at the pottery. She exhibited twice at the Walker Art Gallery between 1891-1910 and was listed separately from the other female 'colourists' as a sculptor and modeller in the employee list.

This piece was inspired by a c.1442 sculpture of John the Baptist by Renaissance artist Donatello. De Caluwé portrays John the Baptist as a child which plays on themes of childhood innocence and purity. This is further illustrated in the detail of the wisps of hair and the subtle band of yellow on the halo.

Makerde Caluwé, Marianne

Maker Roledesigner

MakerDella Robbia Pottery (active 1894-1906)

Maker Rolemanufacturer

Date Madec.1900

Period20th century

Medium and MaterialsCeramic plaque

Place MadeBirkenhead, England

Style and IconographyArts and Crafts

Inscription and MarksSigned to back: M. de C.

MeasurementsHeight: 48cm
Width: 23cm

Subject and Association KeywordsJohn the Baptist

Credit LinePurchased, 2007.

Object Typeplaque

Object numberBIKGM.8664

Copyright LicenceAll rights reserved