About this piece
back to topAn antique jasperware plaque by 19th century Danish artist Peter Ipsen (1815-1860).
The plaque depicts the Roman Greek Thorvaldsen ‘ages of love’. The dramatic scene illustrates figures in classical dress handing out cupids, who symbolise love, from a small pen.
At over 150 years old, this decorative plaque in a buff ceramic and decorated in relief.
The original handcrafted details have stood the test of time, the subject still eye-catching and distinctive on the rich red background in a substantial carved oak frame.
It is a superb Grand Tour piece Danish history that would take pride of place in any home.
Stamped P. Ipsen, Kjobenhavn, Eneret, 391. Ipsen was an artist of the 19th century renowned for making Neoclassical works of art made from ceramics, such as this one.
Roman Greek Thorvaldsen Ages of Love
The original antique made by Bertel Thorvaldsen (1770-1844) made in 1824 depicts a winged Psyche distributing cupids symbolising love, much like this jasperware depiction.
The goddess gives them to women and men, young and old. One young woman kneels in adoration of her cupid, another embraces and kisses her cupid, while a third has lost interest in hers.
The impressive plaque now resides in the Thorvaldsens Museum, in Copenhagen.
Additional dimensions
Plaque without the frame: Height 19cm x width 46.5cm x depth 1.5cm