Lost Zsolnay masterpiece returns to Hungary after a century
For a few days, the masterpiece can be viewed by anyone free of charge. The Zsolnay ceramic artwork depicting dancing female figures was crafted in Pécs and is believed to have been one of the key decorative pieces of the Hungarian pavilion rebuilt after the fire at the 1906 Milan World’s Fair.
A highly valuable artefact has been unveiled in Budapest—one whose very existence was in question for over a hundred years. The piece recently resurfaced at a French auction house after decades of obscurity. Two Hungarian Zsolnay collectors, András Szabó, founder of the ResoArt Foundation, and István Törő, co-owner of the Virág Judit Gallery, joined forces to bring the uniquely valuable ceramic back to Hungary. The stunning and exceptional 120-year-old artwork was revealed at the Kőrössy Villa in the capital.
Rare Zsolnay giant vase
In 2013, at an auction held by the Virág Judit Gallery, a vase that once adorned the Hungarian Pavilion at the 1906 Milan World’s Fair fetched a record-breaking sum of 19 million forints. At the time, there was no evidence of a twin piece. That changed in spring 2025, when a 109 cm tall, 46 cm diameter Zsolnay ceramic appeared at an auction in France. Featuring dancing female figures around a pomegranate tree, it symbolises idealised beauty and fertility. The work was created and signed by the legendary Sándor Apáti Abt.
“We recognised it straight away—we knew it was the lost or, more precisely, never-before-seen twin. I called István Törő and we agreed we had to bring this treasure back to Hungary. We are both collectors, passionately committed to Zsolnay and preserving cultural heritage,” said András Szabó, owner of Kőrössy Villa.
Possibly Owned by Royalty
The Hungarian Pavilion drew significant attention at the 1906 Milan World’s Fair, with the international press especially praising the applied arts section. However, tragedy struck on 3 August when, under still unclear circumstances, the pavilion burned down, destroying nearly everything inside. The Zsolnay ceramic depicting a pomegranate tree, known from several archive images, miraculously survived—albeit damaged.
“Twelve years ago, our gallery sold a ceramic showing evidence of the fire—minor damage marks. It was acquired by the Janus Pannonius Museum, where it’s been a star exhibit in Pécs ever since. Discovering the twin and acquiring it with András Szabó is a major art world sensation,” noted István Törő, co-owner of the Virág Judit Gallery.
It is assumed that following the pavilion’s destruction, this second ceramic piece was displayed at the Hungarian exhibit, as the Zsolnay factory often created twin pieces for major events. Legend has it the ceramic later ended up in the possession of the Romanian royal family.
Deep symbolism in the vase’s design
Zsolnay is now ranked among the world’s most valuable Art Nouveau ceramics. Particularly prized are the unique, intricately crafted pieces made for world fairs. The piece featuring dancing women and a pomegranate tree is among them—its ornamentation representing a recurring Zsolnay motif. The so-called tree of life symbolises a connection between earthly and celestial realms.
“The pomegranate has held great significance since ancient Jewish tradition, viewed as a symbol of fertility, abundance, love, and beauty. Early Christianity adopted the symbol as well. In Hungarian Kalotaszeg and Mezőség embroidery, it embodies fertility, life, abundance, and wealth,” explained István Törő.
“Despite its aesthetic value and symbolic depth, the ceramic does not impose its message. Rather, it invites admiration and contemplation. It is a truly marvellous work of art,” added András Szabó.
Open to all
The two collectors have decided to make the artefact accessible to the public. From 19 to 23 September (open from 11am to 2pm), anyone can view the artwork free of charge in the garden of Kőrössy Villa. Starting 1 October, Milan-themed guided tours and events will be held on Wednesdays from 6pm at Kőrössy Villa, paying tribute to the world fair. According to ancient symbolism, visiting the artwork is especially recommended for new couples and married lovers, as the pomegranate tree is said to bring love and fertility. While this is not guaranteed, the piece is a remarkable artistic experience in its own right.
Please visit our X account to see a video about the details of this Zsolnay masterpiece
Read also: Come and visit the international art meet at Budapest Contemporary 2025
Click here for more news about art in Hungary
Share this article in Hungarian, click here: Helló Magyar