Profuse gilt decoration of flora, with underwater allegory scene.An exemplary and rare Doulton Burslem vase with a deep cobalt ground and Burslem Spanish style decoration, heavy raised gilt outline traceries of seaweed, plants, and other floral motifs, and an underlying allegorical scene of two mermaids, one playing a stringed harp. Profuse gilt decoration to scalloped base and rim. Stamped to base DOULTON BURSLEM. Artist signed. Artist: William Hodkinson Issued: c. 1897 Dimensions: 16"H x 5.5"W Manufacturer: Doulton Burslem Country of Origin: England