Description

This charming pair of early 20th-century ceramic pitchers—one modeled as a rooster and the other as a duck—originates from the well-documented figural ware produced by the Ditmar-Urbach pottery works of Czechoslovakia. Known for their playful shapes and bold use of color, these pieces represent the factory’s Art Deco output from the 1920s and 1930s. Both pitchers were part of a line of novelty ceramics imported into the United States by the Ebeling & Reuss Company of Philadelphia under the “Erphila” trademark, a name now closely associated with collectible European decorative pottery.

The rooster pitcher, marked “Erphila” and impressed with the number 1451, is a classic example of Ditmar-Urbach’s sculptural approach. Its exaggerated comb, large expressive eye, and vivid red, yellow, and black palette highlight the period’s preference for stylization over realism. Measuring approximately 8 x 7½ inches, the piece reflects the hand-painted details and distinctive forms that made Urbach ceramics both functional and artistic. The rooster stands as a highly collectible design, often sought after for its strong Art Deco influence and connection to the transatlantic ceramics trade of the interwar period.

The duck pitcher complements the rooster with its whimsical character and distinctive crackle glaze, a finish frequently seen on Ditmar-Urbach pieces from this era. Although produced in the same stylistic line, its base mark of “Germany” suggests a later run within the long production history of these pitchers, as earlier examples typically carried “Czechoslovakia” marks. Its size, 6 x 6¾ inches, aligns with the smaller of the two standard forms Urbach manufactured. The duck’s bright orange bill, oversized eyes, and animated stance embody the anthropomorphic charm that defined the company’s novelty ware.

Together, these pitchers form a cohesive and historically meaningful pair that illustrates the evolution of Ditmar-Urbach’s decorative ceramics. They capture the factory’s transition through shifting markets, changing national boundaries, and the expanding U.S. import trade. Their expressive designs and strong Art Deco sensibility continue to appeal to collectors of European pottery, period ceramics, and figural art objects. Displayed as a duo, they offer not only visual appeal but also a tangible connection to early 20th-century ceramic artistry.

Condition

Please note all items are "as-is where-is"

Measurement

Terms and Conditions

1. All items are sold where is, as is.

2. Once payment is completed for item(s) won, the ability to schedule a pick-up time will become available. Scheduling a pick-up time is required.

3. There will be a $20 fee assessed per item not picked up at that time that will be collected prior to bidding again at our auctions. Unlike retail, we do not have the option to store your item. If the item is larger than a standard suitcase (22" x 14" x 10"), we will charge $50 to the card on file per item to move the item.

4. Please plan accordingly as items not picked up are considered "abandoned". Do not bid if you cant pick up this day.

5. You are responsible for ensuring you collect all items at pickup.

6. Legacy uses "Popcorn" or "Extended" bidding. This means if a bid comes in at the last second, it is extended 3 minutes. This is like a live auctioneer saying, "going once" to ensure all bids are exhausted prior to closing.

7. We charge a 12% flat buyers premium on all items.

8. We charge KY State Tax with the exception of vehicles which is collected at the DMV.

9. You must bring help to pickup any items. We can recommend movers upon request. Also, please bring tools for items that require disassembly.

10. Please read our complete terms and conditions for additional details.