Unknown Manufacturer
Italian Mid-Century Vase | Grid Artwork
Italian Mid-Century Vase | Grid Artwork
1 in stock
Couldn't load pickup availability
A striking example of mid-century Italian artistry, this tall cylindrical vase features a whimsical hand-painted figure set against a glossy black ground and an expressive freehand grid.
The bold turquoise dress, stylised features, and basket of fruit give the piece a narrative charm typical of Italy’s playful modernist ceramics of the 1950s–60s. On the reverse, a simplified stem-and-leaf motif continues the vertical rhythm of the design.
A wonderfully characterful statement piece with strong colour work and unmistakable mid-century Italian appeal.
Dimensions
Dimensions
- Height: 27.7 cm
- Diameter: 10.6 cm
Condition
Condition
- Excellent - This vase is in excellent vintage condition.
- The silver foil label is partially present but worn, as is common with mid-century Italian pieces.
- No cracks or chips noted.
Additional Information
Additional Information
1. Special Characteristics:
- Authentic Mid-Century Italian Art Pottery (1950s–60s): Crafted during an era when Italian studios embraced bold, naive figuration and modernist experimentation.
- Hand-Decorated Figurative Artwork: The elongated limbs, tilted head, and stylised face reflect the expressive, Gambone-influenced aesthetic popular among contemporary Montelupo and Deruta workshops.
- Gloss Black Glaze with Freehand Grid Lines: The loose white lines create a sense of movement and depth, lending a graphic modern feel.
- Reverse Decoration: The tall stem with green leaves adds balance and visual interest — a common mid-century Italian design choice.
2. Label/Maker's Mark:
- Surviving Partial Silver Foil Label
- The worn text “…MAR…” and “…ECORATED…” supports an attribution to Italian studios that used “Hand Decorated Italy” labels during this period.
3. Design & Features
- Cylindrical form with high-gloss finish
- Raised enamel-style linework outlining the figure
- Vibrant palette: turquoise, lilac, terracotta, yellow, and green
- Distinctive stylised mid-century illustration
- Decorative on all sides — ideal for display on open shelving or consoles
4. Craftsmanship
- Italian ceramics of this era were shaped and decorated by hand, resulting in slight variations, expressive brushwork, and organic linework unique to each piece.
- The raised outlines and bold colours demonstrate the skill and spontaneity typical of Montelupo Fiorentino and Deruta artisans.
5. Uses & Versatility:
- A sculptural stand-alone accent on consoles or bookshelves
- A striking addition to mid-century or eclectic interiors
- Works beautifully as a decorative vase (display empty or with dried stems—not recommended for prolonged water use due to vintage age)
- Ideal for collectors of Italian modernist ceramics
Share
