A Sarreguemines majolica water cistern, cover and basin, circa 1885

Wall-mounted cisterns were made across Europe and for the European market in China throughout the 18th century. The bright palette and durability of faience allowed potters to realised imaginative and playful designs. Cisterns had a practical application for handwashing; the last course of a grand meal would include fruits and sugared treats which guests would pick by hand from a buffet which would be arranged with elaborate ceramics and silver wares and was often enjoyed on terraces and rooms away from the banqueting hall and in the garden. The forms used for this course were derived from nature and a decorative and eye-catching cistern would fit perfectly with this theme. With the perfection of "majolica" ware in France and England in the mid-19th century colourful pottery became a feature of the fashionable home and wares became even more inventive and exotic. The potteries began to produce wares for an expanding middle-class clientele. There was a demand for pottery for use and in architectural contexts fueling the creativity of manufacturers. Whilst handwashing at the table in the 18th century was associated with the elite, by the 19th century the health benefits of cleanliness was apparent to all and wares such as the present cistern became attractive as well as amusing practical additions to the home.   

See the example sold Christie's, New York, 21 January 2004, lot 931.