Black Vase, What is it?

[zgmc3220]

Here are a couple of pictures of a vase that I acquired. Looks like it reads 118/9 Italy. If anyone has any info on the style, maker, or what it might be worth, it would be much appreciated! Also, what would be the correct way to go about cleaning this piece?

[antiquerose123]

Hi, this *might* be a silly question -- but did they make items out of chalkware too in Italy.

The reason I say this, as I note it seems like quite a bit a banging or rubs against the vase -- which Chalkware would be more prone to show. On the base (bottom edge) can you take your fingernail and make a scratch with your fingernail in it....and see the scratch. You know how a when you make a scratch in a piece of chalk, and how it feels (and looks)

With chalkware you can -- pottery you can't

Because IF is it ?? chalk-ware then (not a bad thing), but helps to do some more detective work on it and point us in a certain direction.

Of course, I am only guessing and talking out loud here -- as to what I see (or think I see) in your photos.

Thanks -- and Welcome too ;)