Minton Portrait Vase, Pattern MN-241207 Height: 14 in. This magnificent 14-inch Minton porcelain vase exemplifies the finest 19th-century English craftsmanship, richly enhanced by the hand of French artist E. Poitovin. Poitovin came to England in the 1860s to work for Mintons, where he produced a number of extraordinary painted pieces during his tenure. This particular vase features a superbly painted portrait of a lady in elaborate Renaissance dress, executed on a lavish gold ground. The reverse displays a still life of an artist's tools and classical urn, symbolizing the decorative arts. Both scenes are framed by intricate enamel and gilt borders with delicate motifs, and the vase rests on four elegantly modeled feet. A rare and distinguished collector's piece, combining Minton's technical brilliance with Poitovin's painterly skill, it stands as a testament to the collaborative artistry of the Victorian era.