Portland Vase, Northwood, Wedgwood, circa 1880

Decorated by Thomas Lovatt, then cut, polished and shaded by John Northwood in his glass engraving studio. Although 30 copies were intended, the work was so exacting and arduous that in the end only thirteen were finished.

The mirrored stand, which is included, is later and I think dates from the late 20th century. Of all the stands designed for the Portland Vase, this is the best I’ve seen.

The original Portland vase, dating from around 200AD and made of cameo glass, is considered one of the most important examples of classical design and is noted for its intricate relief sculptures, which depict classical figures and scenes from Greek mythology – exactly what, though, we’re not sure.

The original Wedgwood Portland Vase is now housed in the British Museum in London and is considered one of the museum’s most prized possessions. There is a also a first-edition Wedgwood copy in the museum, one of the few items the museum accepted from a living maker.