T0909SW.COLOGNEBELLARMINE.M    Extreme rare and early c1500 German (probably Cologne)brown saltglazed stoneware bellarmine of very squat bulbous body, wide wirecut base with rough edge, marvered lower body and rounded shoulders into short cordoned neck and simple grooved lip. Applied sprigs of benign, well detailed and bearded face, three profile roundels of the same helmed profile head, intersperced with acanthus leaves, central body banner florate elements and below the same profile roundels and acanthus leaves repeated. Strong grooved handle. Overall mid brown with some darker speckling and light grey underbody showing through. Major restoration throughout but they do not come more rare or desirable than this early style so it is acceptable. Truly a museum item and almost totally unnachievable in the private market otherwise. Displays excellently, a real statement piece. 7 1/2"high, 6 1/4"diameter     £sold