The Collector's Corner

This hand-built and exquisitely illustrated work is by celebrated Danish illustrator and glass, silver, textiles, ceramics designer Bjorn Wiinblad (b. 1918 - d. 2006). We know that this piece was personally handled by Wiinblad as it is signed with both Wiinblad's signature and his artist caricuture icon. Per the dating of the piece, it is attributed to have been made for Wiinblad's very first ceramic workshop 'Værksted' in Copenhagen Denmark. 

The carefully crafted form of this piece is that of a centaur and from the botanical adornments, a dryad sits astride the centaurs back. Highly romantic, Wiinblad applied his exceptional creativity and imagination to both the tactile as well as the expressive line details all over both figures.

From the mildly rounded eyes to the raised leaf crowns and prominent centaur horns, attention is given right down to the pink tipped beak, crested head and tail of the small bird held between the hands of the two figures.

Handpainted onto the form is the slate-grey, blue design with complimented beautifully by intricate detailing of tiny pink rosettes, tendrils, and leaf detail. 

Stylistically timeless, the combination of the design and exceptional condition of this piece as well as Wiinblad's full signature with the beret-wearing artist caricature makes it a particularly rare and noteworthy find of Wiinblad's early work. 

CONDITION
Excellent. No chips, cracks, or repairs. There is mild wear that is most evident in the form of faint movement marks on the underside that is commensurable with the age of the piece. The underside bears the signature 'Bjorn Wiinblad, 59 [year of production], 363 [design number], DANMARK' and artist caricature.

MEASUREMENTS
Height c. 11.4" / 29 cm (from base to rim) x width c. 4.9" / 12.5 cm (across widest point). Length: c. 8.9" / 22.5 cm (longest point). Unpackaged weight: c. 1.3 kg / 1,255 g

NOTES
Sculpture will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

A BIT OF HISTORY
Bjorn Wiinblad (b. 1918 - d. 2006) Born in 1918 in Copenhagen, Bjorn Wiinblad began his training and path to success in 1935. Wiinblad sought the path to his first passion of art and enrolled in graphic school at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts, debuting in 1945 with an extensive exhibition in Palægade, Copenhagen. He met and became firm friends with Jacob E. Bang around this time, who engaged him to work for Nymølle Pottery.

From the beginnings at Nymolle, Wiinblad received multiple commissions, from designing textile and embroidery patterns to drawing posters, books, and magazine illustrations. Wiinblad drew for the United Nations in Paris and designed costumes and stages for several theatrical performances. His fame grew in Denmark but soon would extend to Norway and Sweden and in 1950 his ceramics were exhibited at Bonnier's in New York, which specialised in Scandinavian design.

Wiinblad's recognition and acclaim would continue to grow, bringing him a silver medal at the first international ceramics festival in 1955 in Cannes, France, and appointment as artistic director for Rosenthal in 1960. During the 1960s, Wiinblad would become the owner of a number of ceramic studios including Vaerksted, Nymolle, and Det Blaa Hus. He would make Det Blaa Hus his workshop and home until his death in 2006.

Wiinblad's successes did not stop in the Sixties, his continued achievements and international success were extensively documented and celebrated.

This striking work of Swedish Mid-Century Modernist design the signed work of Marian Zawadski (b. 1912 - d. 1978) a professor, artist, and ceramist who became artistic director for Tilgmans Keramik of Gothenburg, Sweden during the 1950s. 

Zawadski's experimentation with the Sgraffito technique brought great popularity and appreciation for Tilgman's ceramics and his work became exemplary for Tilgmans. 

Zawadski's stylised use of the Sgraffito technique is a significant feature in this piece, with deep incisions creating the heavily arched, angular, and textured décor. True to the roots of Modernist design, the simple bottle form with boldly geometric décor overlaid onto the base material speaks to an honest expression of the natural earthenware. From the incised décor to the glaze to the earthenware, all aspects are highly tactile. The unglazed sections create a confident contrast against the individually glazed sections of boldly geometric, Sgraffito décor. The vase is finished with an interior of gloss glaze that is coloured in Powdered Duck Egg tone. 

This Swedish Modernist work is stylistically bold and timeless, making it suitable as a statement feature for its surrounding space.

CONDITION
Superb. No cracks or repairs. There are minor, negligible chips on the exterior which are commensurate with the age of the piece, and mild use wear on the interior. Please refer to the photos as they form part of the condition report. The base of the body is incised with Zawadski's signature 'A.M.Z' and dated '1966'. The underside of the base of the vase is stamped with 'Tilgmans Keramik' and 'Made in Sweden' stamp and model number '620'. 

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 22.2" / 56.5 cm tall (from base to rim) x c. 4.5" / 11.5 cm rim diameter. Base diameter: c. 6.1" / 15.5 cm. Unpackaged weight: c. 5.8 kg / 5,800 g.

NOTES
Vase will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

A BIT OF HISTORY
Marian Zawadski (b. 1912 - d. 1978)
Antoni Marian Zawadski (sometimes known as 'Zawadzki' or 'Zawadsky') was an associate professor, artist, and ceramist, was born in Poland in 1912 who, as a refugee, moved to Gothenburg in Sweden in 1953. In Gothenburg, he worked as an artistic director at Tilgmans Keramik. Zawadski is best known for his richly decorated objects in the Sgraffito technique.

His works included lamp bases, vases, bowls, urns and wall plates and he would receive commissions for public, municipal, and private buildings. Zawadski would leave Tilgman's Ceramics in 1970, moving to Vallda outside Kungsbacka where he opened his own workshop, Vallda Keramik. The production in his own workshop is very similar to his work at Tilgmans.

This striking handblown work of Swedish art glass design is by Bertil Vallien (b. 1938 - ), celebrated glass artist, sculptor, ceramist, and designer. Vallien's career in glass began at Boda Glassworks in 1963, upon his return to Sweden from his studies in art and ceramics, both in Sweden and the US. Vallien's experimentation with sand-casting glass techniques would eventually bring him fame and this fascination is evident even in this exploratory piece.

The exterior surface of this piece is undulating, uneven, and with a base colour of pearlescent green. The next layer is a dappling in rich Inky Indigo which encircles the bowl interspersed with what appears to be a Powdered Peach tone. The iridescence is underpinned with lava-rock-like texture and the whole piece is finished with a dusted Peridot-toned 'pebble'. The interior of the bowl is a smooth, semi-matte and frosted layer of glass overlaid in iridescence.

The overall effect is quite spectacular, giving the air of a delicate bowl carved from an extraterrestrial iridescent geode of quartz crystal and lava. 

This particular piece is numbered and marked as 'Unik', indicating that it is a unique piece and when combined with the design, craftsmanship and condition, makes this piece a rare find. 

CONDITION
Excellent, no chips, cracks or repairs. Age-commensurate wear, most prominently on the underside of the bowl, please refer to photos as they form part of the condition report. The bowl is inscribed with 'BODA UNIK 3645 B.VALLIEN. The exterior also bears the silver label 'Handmade Boda Sweden'.

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 3.2" /  8.2 cm x c. 4.1" / 10.4 cm diameter (across widest point). Base diameter: c. 2" / 5cm. Unpackaged weight: c. 0.3 kg / 275 g.

NOTES
Bowl will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

A BIT OF HISTORY
Born in 1938, Bertil Vallien was only 15 when he left home, drawn by the allure of the big city. After a series of occasional jobs, as a window-dresser at one of the main department stores in Stockholm, and as an apprentice in his father's decorating firm, Vallien would eventually decide to become an artist which would lead him into the world of ceramics. The guidance he received in his early career included that of Stig Lindberg - one of Sweden's foremost designers of ceramic art and one of the leading designers for Rörstrand in the 1970s.

Today, Vallien is one of the most well-known representatives of 20th-century Swedish ceramic and art glass design and is represented at the Swedish National Museum of Art and Design as well as abroad at the Everson Museum of Art of New York.

Vallien's works have only become more collectable over the years with sculptures from his Head and Journey (Boat) series fetching up to $20,000 USD.

This striking work of Swedish art glass design is by Bertil Vallien (b. 1938 - ), a celebrated glass artist, sculptor, ceramist, and designer. This piece is attributed as a variation of the Columbus series which Vallien created for Kosta Boda and is 1 of 100 pieces. 

Suspended inside the sculpture are symbols through which Vallien communicates, icons, and mythological expression. This boat tells the journey from yesterday to tomorrow. The ship forms an encapsulated timeline where the stern is the past, and the bow is what is to come. The center of the boat bears the passenger, ladder, and a celestial body. The bow is clear, as the future is unwritten and hopeful. The piece is finished with solid clear interior created by the pouring of molten glass and silver plating on the exterior.

Vallien's sand casting technique has brought him worldwide acclaim. Using wooden models, he creates a hollow in the sand which is then filled with various powdered oxides giving finishings from textures to frosted patterns of colour. The 'story' is created by Vallien with the placement of the symbols and icons before molten glass is poured into the sand moulds.  

CONDITION
Excellent, no chips, cracks or repairs. Age-commensurate wear, most prominently on the exterior silver plating, please refer to photos as they form part of the condition report. The sculpture is inscribed with '7520114 Kosta Boda, Lim. ['Limited Edition'] B Vallien ' and labelled on the exterior with the 'KOSTA BODA, Sweden 1742' label.

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 2.3" / 5.8 cm x c. 9.8" / 25 cm in length x c. 2.6" / 6.5 cm width.  Unpackaged weight: c. 1.2 kg / 1,205 g

NOTES
Sculpture will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

A BIT OF HISTORY
Born in 1938, Bertil Vallien was only 15 when he left home, drawn by the allure of the big city. After a series of occasional jobs, as a window-dresser at one of the main department stores in Stockholm, and as an apprentice in his father's decorating firm, Vallien would eventually decide to become an artist which would lead him into the world of ceramics. The guidance he received in his early career included that of Stig Lindberg - one of Sweden's foremost designers of ceramic art and one of the leading designers for Rörstrand in the 1970s.

Today, Vallien is one of the most well-known representatives of 20th-century Swedish ceramic and art glass design and is represented at the Swedish National Museum of Art and Design as well as abroad at the Everson Museum of Art of New York.

Vallien's works have only become more collectable over the years with sculptures from his Head and Journey (Boat) series fetching up to $20,000 USD.

This elegantly glamourous work of Art Deco design is by the British Pottery Crown Devon. Like much of Art Deco design, there is a focus on shape and absence of extravagance, however, the form of this piece also carries strong echoes of the Art Deco Odeon style.

Art Deco Odeon style references the revolution in British style brought about by the c.260 Odeon cinemas that sprung up across the UK from the late 1920s. Over 13 years, Oscar Deutsch created a circuit of cinemas where the buildings celebrated Art Deco Modernism with sweeping, simple yet strongly defined lines.

The central feature of the vase is the plinthed conical form that is complimented by the strongly defined straight and curved 'struts' on either side. The glaze across the entire palette of Powdered Verdigris, Latte and Slate-Blue is semi-matte, giving understated refinement to the stylised leaf design.

Timeless in style and when combined with the featured design; the size and overall condition of this piece make this a rare find. 

CONDITION
Excellent. There are no chips or repairs. There is mild surface wear to movement marks on the underside of the base that is commensurate with the age of the piece. Please refer to photos as they form part of the condition report. The underside of the base bears Crown Devon's stamp and the model number '2406'.

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 7.6" / 19.3 cm (from base to rim) x c. 5.5" / 14 cm diameter (across widest point). Base diameter: c. 4.1" / 10.5 cm. Unpackaged weight: c. 0.7 kg / 725 g

NOTES
Vase will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items. 

A BIT OF HISTORY

Crown Devon Fieldings (1870 - 1982) The pottery was founded in 1870 by Simon Fieldings in Stoke on Trent but it would be 10 years later before they began to produce Majolica style pottery that was popular during the 1880s. Their product range began to expand in the 1890s, working with British United Clock company and they would continue to expand their product range as popularity flourished after successful world trade fairs in the 1900s. They sustained their success for over a century before sadly closing in 1982 at the time of the recession.

This subtly bold work of Art Deco design is British pottery Beswick. With strong curves that infer Streamline Moderne, the international style of Art Deco that emerged in the 1930s was inspired by aerodynamic design. The elevated and sharp overlapping fins that form the triangular mouth of this piece capture attention with its presence. The overall form is a superb backdrop for the contrasting glaze decor.

The interior of the mouth is a striking Mint green which beautifully compliments the semi-matte drip glaze composition of Cobalt Blue, Flax Yellow that is finished with an accent of Sienna brown. The flow of the glaze beautifully contrasts against the strongly defined geometric lines of the piece.

The various elements in the design bring sleek sophistication and elegance suiting a room with decor inspired by Modernist, Art Deco, or Contemporary design influences. The excellent condition, model and palette of this work are a rare find.

CONDITION
Excellent, no chips or cracks. There is mild crazing to the glaze and light wear that is most evident on the underside of the feet which is commensurable with the age of the piece, please see photos as part of the condition report. The underside of the feet is faintly embossed with 'BESWICK ENGLAND' and only the belly underside, the model number '178'.

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 7.5" / 19 cm tall (from base to rim) x c. 7.1" / 18 cm in length (across the widest point). Unpackaged weight: c. 1.0 kg / 980 g

A BIT OF HISTORY
Beswick Pottery
The Beswick firm was founded as 'J W Beswick' in 1892 by James Beswick and his sons in Staffordshire and originally produced tablewares and ornaments. The pottery was chiefly known for producing high-quality porcelain figurines such as animals and Beatrix Potter characters that have become highly sought after in the collectables market.

Following James Beswick's death in 1921, his grandson John took over and continued to expand the business. In 1934, introduced a new range of jugs, bowls and vases decorated with new matte glazes. Responding to the Modernist design influence of the time, many of these highly distinctive shapes were designed by Mr Symcox . These works were often decorated in 'satin matte' glazes using soft pastel colours running into each other or arranged in striking modern geometric blocks and lines. Beswick would go on to become known for their ceramic animal figures before being taken over by Royal Doulton in 1969 and finally closing in the early 2000's.

Though it is said these pieces will never be worth thousands, still, there is revived and growing interest in their Art Deco pieces as they survive in very good condition. They also justify Beswick's annoucement in a 1930's advertisement of "a sound body, with a brilliant, non-crazing glaze fashioned in hundreds of shapes".

NOTES
Vase will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

This subtly bold work of Modernist design influence is by designer and modeller Albert Hallam. The elevated and sharp Right Triangle form of this piece captures attention with its presence and difficult to avoid wherever it is displayed. The form is a superb backdrop for the contrasting glaze decor.

The interior decor is a glossy golden mustard that is not particularly loud on its own. However, when paired with the matte yet iridescent black lustre glaze on the exterior, it becomes a necessity for emphasising the sharply geometric form of the piece.

The various elements in the design bring sleek sophistication and elegance suiting a room with decor inspired by Modernist, Retro, Contemporary, or Industrial design influences. The excellent condition and design of this work are a rare find.

CONDITION
Excellent, no chips or cracks. There is mild use wear that is most evident on the underside of the feet that is commensurable with the age of the piece, please see photos as part of the condition report. The underside of the dish is debossed with 'BESWICK ENGLAND' and the model number '1985' with production period dated to between 1964 to 1972.

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 3.9" / 10 cm tall (from base to rim) x c. 14.6" / 37 cm in length x c. 9" / 23 cm in width. Unpackaged weight: c. 1.1 kg / 1,071 g

A BIT OF HISTORY
Albert Hallam (b. 1912 - d. 1975/76)
Albert Hallam joined Beswick in 1926 at the age of fourteen as apprentice mould maker and in due course became the head of mould making and an important modeller in his own right. The growth of his influence followed the retirement of Arthur Gredington and Hallam was instrumental in maintaining Beswick’s high standard of modelling and figure creation.

Beswick Pottery
The Beswick firm was founded as 'J W Beswick' in 1892 by James Beswick and his sons in Staffordshire and originally produced tablewares and ornaments. The pottery was chiefly known for producing high-quality porcelain figurines such as animals and Beatrix Potter characters that have become highly sought after in the collectables market.

Following James Beswick's death in 1921, his grandson John took over and continued to expand the business. In 1934, introduced a new range of jugs, bowls and vases decorated with new matte glazes. Responding to the Modernist design influence of the time, many of these highly distinctive shapes were designed by Mr Symcox . These works were often decorated in 'satin matte' glazes using soft pastel colours running into each other or arranged in striking modern geometric blocks and lines. Beswick would go on to become known for their ceramic animal figures before being taken over by Royal Doulton in 1969 and finally closing in the early 2000's.

Though it is said these pieces will never be worth thousands, still, there is revived and growing interest in their Art Deco pieces as they survive in very good condition. They also justify Beswick's annoucement in a 1930's advertisement of "a sound body, with a brilliant, non-crazing glaze fashioned in hundreds of shapes".

NOTES
Dish will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

This awesome work of Mid-Century Modern design is by Ingrid Atterberg, (b. 1920 - d. 2008) a celebrated epitome for illustrious 20th-century Swedish ceramic design. Atterberg was also a leading designer for Upsala Ekeby for whom she designed this vase. 

This hand-thrown and hand-glazed piece comes from Atterberg's Chamotte series designed in 1957 and in production between 1957-1959. The series would go on to be very well-known during this time. The series is comprised of earthenware bowls and vases, characterised by raw textured earthenware juxtaposing the gloss and matte glaze.

This particular piece is beautifully rounded, an excellent canvas for the hand-glazed decor. The chamotte earthenware is incised with sgraffito bands that are filled with the Milk white glaze and a wash all over the bottle form creates the semi-gloss glaze dapple effect. The piece is finished with a band of gloss Iris purple around the belly of the vase as well as the neck.

A Modernist design piece that is classic of its time yet also contemporarily timeless.  

CONDITION
Excellent. No chips, cracks, or repairs. There is mild wear to the underside of the vase that is commensurable with the age of the piece. Please refer to the photographs as they form part of the condition report. The underside is inscribed and stamped with 'UE, 3030 and '547'.

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 7.5" / 19 cm tall (from base to rim) x c. 1.2" / 3 cm rim diameter. Diameter: c. 4.9" /  12.5 cm (across widest point. Base diameter: c. 4.7" / 12 cm. Unpackaged weight: c. 0.7 kg / 720 g

NOTES
Vase will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

A BIT OF HISTORY
Ingrid Magdalena Atterberg-Göransson (b. 1920 - d. 2008) was a celebrated epitome of illustrious Swedish ceramic design of the 20th century and a leading designer for Upsala Ekeby in the 1950s and 1960s. Atterberg is represented at the Swedish National Museum of Art and Design.

In 1944, she was employed at Upsala Ekeby, where appreciation for her works as a ceramicist continued to grow over the years. She was known for using 'manganese clay' in the 1940s and chamotte in the 1950s and successfully developed her own glazes. In the late 1940s, her own collection called "Ekeby Verkstad" was born with a numbered series that began at 100.

During her career, Atterberg had several exhibitions and received a gold medal for her work in Italy as well as completing a number of public commissions. 

These sleek and chic works of iconic mid-century Modern art pottery are by celebrated and prominent designer Kurt Tschörner (b. 1912 - d. 1987) for the influential West German Pottery studio of Ruscha Keramik (1905 - 1996). 

The form features gently exaggerated curves and arches all over, reminiscent of popular works of Italian art potteries such as Bertoncello Ceramiche and Roberto Rigon with echoes of architectural geometricism worked into the design. The form is an excellent canvas for the semi-matte and textured lava glaze with similarly bold, hand-painted curves, delineation, charming florals, and colour palette. 

With the seamlessly blended echoes of Italian mid-century art pottery design and earlier Art Deco and Picasso-Cubist-esque influences to the form, it's easy to see why this form is sought after. 

The combination of the form, condition, sizes, and palette makes this duo an even rarer find. These statement works are excellent for stand-alone display.

CONDITION
Excellent. No chips, cracks, or repair. There is negligible surface wear and movement marks on the underside of the bases that is commensurable with the age of the pieces - please see photos as part of the condition report. The underside of the bases are signed - the taller: '321/4, Ruscha, Handgemalt (Handmade) M' and the smaller '321/3, Ruscha, Handgemalt (Handmade) Ed'. 

MEASUREMENTS
321/4 Height: c. 9.6" / 24.3 cm (from base to rim) x c.  6.5" / 16.5 cm in length (across longest point). Width: c.  4.3" / 11  cm. Base measurements: c.  3.5" /  9 cm. 

321/3 Height: c. 7.9" / 20 cm (from base to rim) x c.  5.1" / 13 cm in length (across longest point). Width: c.  3.9" / 10 cm. Base measurements: c.  2.9" /  7.3 cm. Unpackaged weight [Pair]: c. 1.2 kg / 1,215 g

A BIT OF HISTORY
Ruscha (established 1906 - 1996) Originally founded in Rheinbach by Georg Schardt, it was known as Klein & Schardt until 1948. Rudolf Schardt would take over the company and rename it to Ruscha, the name created from the first letters of his fore and surname. As Ruscha entered the ceramics boom in the 1950s, the pottery was joined by art pottery director Cili Wörsdörfer who made her handpainted designs for series such as Milano and Zebra wildly popular. Otto Gerharz was the production director, designing innovative glazes such as Vulkano. 

Ruscha would later add to its success with Kurt Tschörner joining in the 1960s, designing whimsical and daring forms such as the 313 and 321 jug vase that became and remain sought-after hits. 

Other greats who joined Ruscha included Ernst Borens, Hans Welling and Adele Bolz. Unfortunately, the pottery's success came to an end in the 1990s, when it finally closed its doors in 1996, selling its name and many designs to Scheurich who produced vintage-inspired designs under the 'Ruscha Art' brand. 

This sleek and chic work of iconic mid-century Modern art pottery is by influential West German Pottery studio of Ruscha Keramik (1905 - 1996). 

The form features gently exaggerated curves inward becoming an excellent canvas for the semi-matte and textured lava glaze with bold, hand-painted curves, round-angled shapes, charming blue and yellow florals. The colour palette is whimsical, carrying echoes of the 1960s-70s Flower Power period during which the piece was created.

The combination of the form, condition, size, and palette makes it a rare find. This work makes it an excellent statement piece for stand-alone display.

CONDITION
Excellent. No chips, cracks, or repairs. There is negligible surface wear and movement marks on the underside of the base that is commensurable with the age of the piece - please see photos as part of the condition report. The underside of the base is signed with '708 2, Ruscha, Handgemalt (Handmade) BW'. 

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 2.8" / 7 cm (from base to rim) x c. 12.7" / 32.3 cm in width (across widest point). Base measurements: c.  3.9" / 9.9 cm. Unpackaged weight: c. 1.2 kg / 1,190 g

A BIT OF HISTORY
Ruscha (established 1906 - 1996) Originally founded in Rheinbach by Georg Schardt, it was known as Klein & Schardt until 1948. Rudolf Schardt would take over the company and rename it to Ruscha, the name created from the first letters of his fore and surname. As Ruscha entered the ceramics boom in the 1950s, the pottery was joined by art pottery director Cili Wörsdörfer who made her handpainted designs for series such as Milano and Zebra wildly popular. Otto Gerharz was the production director, designing innovative glazes such as Vulkano. 

Ruscha would later add to its success with Kurt Tschörner joining in the 1960s, designing whimsical and daring forms such as the 313 and 321 jug vase that became and remain sought-after hits. 

Other greats who joined Ruscha included Ernst Borens, Hans Welling and Adele Bolz. Unfortunately, the pottery's success came to an end in the 1990s, when it finally closed its doors in 1996, selling its name and many designs to Scheurich who produced vintage-inspired designs under the 'Ruscha Art' brand. 

This beautifully biomorphic and handblown work of Czech Modernist art glass was designed by Josef Cvrcek (b. 1931 - d. 2010) and Miloslav Klinger (b. 1922 - d. 1999) for Bohemian glassworks Zelezny Brod Sklo (ZBS). This piece is a rare-to-market work standing at an imposing 15" in height and crafted from Neodymium (Alexandrite) glass into the organically tactile, twin-chambered form. The rarity of this piece comes from this particular piece's form being crafted from Neodymium, the condition, and this statement size. 

The contemporary form of this piece is composed of a central chamber that is echoed by a smaller, asymmetrical chamber, both of which are firmly cradled by the main body of the solid crystal glass. 

This work is not only special in the abstract, organic form that creates elegant refractions but it also has the ability to colour change. The colour-changing ability comes from Neodymium, an element incorporated into the glass during the crafting process. Under daylight, the Neodymium glass presents a pale lilac colour however, under indoor and fluorescent lighting, the element becomes a pale blue. 

CONDITION
Excellent, no chips or cracks or repairs. There is very mild surface wear that is commensurate with the age of the piece and most evident in movement marks on the underside of the base. Please refer to the photos as they form part of the condition report. 

MEASUREMENTS
Height c. 15.3" / 38.5 cm x c. 7.9" / 20 cm in width (across the widest point). Depth (Thickest point) measurements: c. 2.6" / 6.5 cm. Rim measurement: c. 1.6" / 4 cm x c. 1" / 2.3 cm. Base measurements: c. 5" / 12.6 cm x c. 2.6" / 6.5 cm. Unpackaged weight: 4.5 kg / 4,470 g

NOTES
Vase will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

A BIT OF HISTORY
Josef Cvrcek (b. 1931 - d. 2010) Josef Cvrcek began his career as a glassblower in 1945. He started working at the Zelezny Brod Sklo Glassworks in 1951 and quickly gained recognition for his innovative glass designs. Cvrcek was known for his ability to manipulate glass in ways that were previously thought impossible, such as creating thin, delicate structures that appeared to defy gravity. His work often featured organic forms and abstract shapes, and he frequently incorporated color and texture into his designs. Cvrcek's work can be found in museums and private collections around the world.

Miloslav Klinger (b. 1922 - d. 1999) Miloslav Klinger was born in Hrubá Horka near Železný Brod. After a year of apprenticeship in glass chandeliers with Josef Kleinert, Klinger studied at the Glass School in Železný Brod under the guidance of prof. Jaroslav Brychta and master Jan Stuchlík. After graduating, Klinger worked in Kleiert's company as a designer for two years. After completing his studies, Klinger returns to Železný Brod as a designer, where, apart from his brief career as director of the Glass School in Železný Brod, he remained throughout his life.

Zelezny Brod Glassworks
Železný Brod is an old glass-producing town founded in the eleventh century. It was originally known as Brod ("ford") or Brodek ("little ford"). Železný ("iron") was added to its name in the fourteenth century, alluding to the town's steelworks. The town's main industry is represented by producers of blow-moulded glass, as well as that of jewellers. The Železný Brod (ZBS) glassworks was created in 1948 as a result of nationalisation, at the time, this was made up of 9 glass factories in the town. ZBS being particularly well known for its free-form organic vases and bowls designed by Miroslav Klinger.

This rare and stunning work of Italian mid-century Modern art pottery is by Fratelli Fanciullacci (1862-1988) from the stylised Town series that was designed and in production between the 1950s to 1960s, during the Italian ceramics boom.

The Town series* is characterised by its highly tactile Sgraffito on raw clay décor that is beautifully juxtaposed against the gloss, semi-matte and lava glaze techniques. The base is a rich and matte Cookie-toned earthenware, upon which is incised the geometric town buildings and landscape silhouettes. The vibrant colour palette of Lime green, Tomato Red and Dandelion yellow is boldly offset against the tones of Chocolate, Cookie browns and Milk white. The interior is further gloss glazed in white which enables this to be used functionally. 

Timeless in aesthetic style yet very representative of the mid-century Italian Modern design movement, this piece is in excellent condition with the design and form being particularly rare find.

*Reference: Page: 121, Alla Moda, Italian Ceramics of 1950s-70s, Mark Hill, Published 2012 

CONDITION
Excellent, there are no cracks, or repairs. There is mild surface wear to the glaze that is commensurate with age. The underside of the vase is noted with the model number '7852'. 

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 8.4" / 21.3 cm tall (from base to tallest point). Rim diameter: c. 3.2" / 8.2 cm. Diameter (across widest point): c. 5.9" / 15 cm. Base measurements: c. 4" /  10.2 cm. Unpackaged weight: c. 1.0 kg / 985 g

NOTES
Vase will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

A BIT OF HISTORY
Fratelli Fanciullacci (f. 1862 - c. 1988) came from an illustrious lineage with family members having worked for the Ginori porcelain company since the 1700s. Founded as Ceramich Capraia by Raffaello Fanciullacci, it would be the late 1870s before being renamed as Fratelli Fanciullacci.

As early as the 1910s, Fanciullacci became the single largest employer in Montelupo Fiorentino offering over 1,000 different forms and a plethora of patterns and glazes by 1914. During the 1920s-30s, the team included Aldo Londi (who would go on to found Bitossi). Fanciullacci was known for reflecting public desires and contemporary taste in their work. Modern design was introduced shortly after WWII with inspiration taken from Modern art offering a profusion of clean-lined, geometrically influenced forms in a vivacious rainbow of colours. During the mid-century period, over 90% of Fanciullacci's production was exported abroad. 

Sadly, the natural disaster of the River Arno flooding in November 1966 meant widespread destruction, forced closure and redundancies for over a year. Though Fanciullacci rallied in the 1970s, cheaper production abroad resulted in loss of market share and after a number of falterings, Fanciullacci would eventually close in 1988. 

This statement work of Mid Century Modern design is by Ingrid Atterberg, (b. 1920 - d. 2008) a celebrated epitome for illustrious 20th century Swedish ceramic design. Atterberg was also a leading designer for Upsala Ekeby for whom she designed this centrepiece. 

This hand-thrown and hand-glazed piece comes from Atterberg's Chamotte series designed in 1957, the series would go on to be very well known during this time. The series was comprised of 13 earthenware bowls and vases characterised by textured earthenware in juxtaposed gloss glaze and matte glaze.

This particular piece is elegantly lengthy, providing an excellent canvas for the hand-glazed decor. The colour palette is a composition of muted Ink and Midnight navy, Stone whites, Powdered Mint green, and Electric blue that is offset against the matte Mocha brown. The glaze is overlaid with bold geometric accents in Jet black as is the exterior of the bowl. 

A stunning piece that is majestic in size with excellent condition and in a Modernist design that is classic of its time yet also contemporarily timeless.  

CONDITION
Excellent. No chips, cracks, or repairs. There is mild wear to the exterior of the bowl that is commensurable with the age of the piece. Please refer to the photographs as they form part of the condition report. The underside is inscribed and stamped with 'UE, 2308 and Atterberg's 'Abg' initials. The interior of the dish also bears the original Upsala Ekeby label. 

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 3.1" / 8 cm tall (from base to rim) x c. 7.5" / 19 cm width x c. 16.5" / 42 cm length (across widest and longest points) Depth c. 3" / 7.5 cm Base: c. 5.9" / 15 cm x c. " 2.6 / 6.5 cm. Unpackaged weight: c. 1.4 kg / 1,395 g

NOTES
Bowl will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

A BIT OF HISTORY
Ingrid Magdalena Atterberg-Göransson (b. 1920 - d. 2008) was a celebrated epitome of illustrious Swedish ceramic design of the 20th century and a leading designer for Upsala Ekeby in the 1950s and 1960s. Atterberg is represented at the Swedish National Museum of Art and Design.

In 1944, she was employed at Upsala Ekeby, where appreciation for her works as a ceramicist continued to grow over the years. She was known for using 'manganese clay' in the 1940s and chamotte in the 1950s, and successfully developed her own glazes. In the late 1940s, her own collection called "Ekeby Verkstad" was born with a numbered series that began at 100.

During her career, Atterberg had several exhibitions and received a gold medal for her work in Italy as well as completing a number of public commissions. 

his statement work of Mid Century Modern design is by Ingrid Atterberg, (b. 1920 - d. 2008) a celebrated epitome for illustrious 20th century Swedish ceramic design. Atterberg was also a leading designer for Upsala Ekeby for whom she designed this vase. 

This hand-thrown and hand-glazed piece comes from Atterberg's Chamotte series designed in 1957, the series would go on to be very well known during this time. The series was comprised of 13 earthenware bowls and vases characterised by textured earthenware in juxtaposed gloss glaze and matte glaze.

This particular piece is elegantly lengthy, providing an excellent canvas for the hand-glazed decor. The colour palette is a composition of Powdered Mint Green, Stone whites, and Electric blue with bold geometric accents in Jet black.  A stunning piece that is majestic in size with excellent condition and in a Modernist design that is classic of its time yet also contemporarily timeless.  

CONDITION
Excellent. There is mild wear to the underside of the vase that is commensurable with the age of the piece. The base is further protected by 4 protective felt pads. Please refer to the photographs as they form part of the condition report. The underside is inscribed and stamped with 'UE, 2316 and Atterberg's 'Abg' initials.

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 15.7" / 40 cm tall (from base to rim) x c. 2" / 5 cm x c. 1.8" / 4.5 cm rim diameter. Diameter: c. 5.5" / 14 cm (across widest point. Base diameter: c. 3.2" / 8.2 cm. Unpackaged weight: c. 2.8 kg / 2,810 g

NOTES
Vase will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

A BIT OF HISTORY
Ingrid Magdalena Atterberg-Göransson (b. 1920 - d. 2008) was a celebrated epitome of illustrious Swedish ceramic design of the 20th century and a leading designer for Upsala Ekeby in the 1950s and 1960s. Atterberg is represented at the Swedish National Museum of Art and Design.

In 1944, she was employed at Upsala Ekeby, where appreciation for her works as a ceramicist continued to grow over the years. She was known for using 'manganese clay' in the 1940s and chamotte in the 1950s, and successfully developed her own glazes. In the late 1940s, her own collection called "Ekeby Verkstad" was born with a numbered series that began at 100.

During her career, Atterberg had several exhibitions and received a gold medal for her work in Italy as well as completing a number of public commissions. 

This viviacious work of Swedish Modernist design is the 'Igelkott' ('Hedgehog') vase that comes from the larger 'Chamott' (Chamotte) series designed between 1936 to 1948. The series was designed by the celebrated Swedish ceramicist and designer Gunnar Nylund (b.1904 - d.1997) for Rörstrand.

The vases were made in 5 colours (Emerald, Topaz, (Mustard), Turquoise, White, and Yellow) with 3 different forms to the vases. This Topaz piece comes from the 'Al' form and is the medium size of the 3 available sizes at 16 cm in height (small 12cm, medium 16cm, large 21cm). Nylund became well known for his Chamotte sculptures, designing the series during his time as artistic director at Rörstrand.

Handworked, the rugged yet polished décor makes this an exceptionally tactile piece and the highly textured surface with the glossily glazed décor is a fabulous juxtaposition. Stylistically timeless and contemporary, this work is an outstanding example of Scandinavian mid-century Modern design. 

CONDITION
Very Good. There is light use wear to the underside of the base and the glaze décor that is commensurable with the age of the piece. The underside is stamp-inscribed with "Rorstrand, Sverige, Chamotte, Nylund". 

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 6.3" / 16 cm (from base to rim). Width: c. 4.9" / 12.5 cm (across widest point). Rim diameter: c. 2" / 5 cm. Base diameter: c. 2.4" / 6.2 cm. Unpackaged weight: c. 1.4 kg / 1,350 g

A BIT OF HISTORY
Gunnar Nylund (b. 1904 – d.1997) Nylund was a Swedish ceramic designer since the 1930s and is perhaps best known as the artistic director of Rörstrand and was already a well-established ceramic artist in Denmark - first at the Bing & Grøndahl Porcelain factory in Copenhagen and later at Saxbo.

Nylund was resident at Rörstrand from 1931–1955 and for the majority of this time, as artistic director. He became well known for his new matte feldspar glazed stoneware in hare’s fur and crystal glazes and for his stoneware animal sculptures. Over five decades, Nylund crafted some 30 reliefs and sculptures commissioned for public spaces, including Europe’s largest stoneware fountain the “Scanisarius” in Bromölla, Sweden.

Most of Nylund’s original sculptures in stoneware chamotte ended up in museums, as did much of his other work. Sculptures such as the “Lion Head” is found at the National Museum in Stockholm, “Blue Bird” is at the Sèvres museum in Paris, his antelope head “Abyssinian mountain nyala”, is at the Röhsska museet in Gothenburg and the “Hamadryas Baboon” is at the Malmö Museum.

His piece “Bulls head in oxblood” was bought by the Ateneum museum in Helsinki. And a lot of his other work can be found at other museums around the world.

This delicious handblown work of Post Modern art glass is by leading Swedish glass artist Kjell Engman (b. 1946 -), accoladed with the name 'Glass Wizard' for his unlimited imagination with art glass.

This piece is from the popular series named Bon Bon, designed by Engman in 1989. It's easy to see why this series was named Bon Bon, with the candy-coloured pieces ranging from pairing Lavender lilac with Lemon yellow to Marmalade orange with Sky blue.

The central part of this particular piece is spheroid shaped, beautifully curved, and toned in a Candied Sapphire blue. Fused into the spheroid is the pitcher stem in striped tones of Coquelicot and Coral orange, the mergng between the two colours is finished with light sand texture. This work is further accented with an organically shaped Lemon yellow handle and finished with a disc of clear glass for the base.

The overall composition of this work is of great harmony, demonstrated in the stunning blending of colour with form and size, makes this a statement piece.

CONDITION
Excellent. No chips, cracks, or repair. There is negligible surface wear and movement marks on the underside of the base that is commensurable with the age of the piece - please see photos as they form part of the condition report. The underside of the base is signed, denoting 'Kosta Boda, K Engman, 89066'

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 14" / 36 cm tall (from base to rim) x c. 8.1" / 20.5 cm in width (across widest point). Depth: c. 3.7" / 9.5 cm. Rim: c. 2.3" / 5.8 cm. Base: c. 3.9" / 10 cm. Unpackaged weight: 1.9 kg / 1,880 g

NOTES
Pitcher vase will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

A BIT OF HISTORY
Kjell Engman (b. 1946 -), accoladed with the name 'Glass Wizard' for his unlimited imagination with art glass and known for being one of ten highly talented artists. Since joining Kosta Boda in 1978, Engman has designed a number of iconic series, drawing inspiration from diverse sources such as the animal kingdom, the world of music and entertainment.

Engman's style is distinctive and immediately recognisable. Common characteristics to his work include being bold, bright and colourful, ranging from the playful to the delicate to the sensuous. It could almost be described as Dali-esque and does not conform to preconceptions of simple, minimalist Swedish design.

Engman has often been commissioned at home in Sweden and abroad, designing works for public display and even famous pieces such as the 2008 Eurovision Song Contest trophy. Engman's latest works and installations can be found at his dedicated website: http://www.kjellengman.com/

This delicious work of Swedish Mid Century Modern design is by Mari Simmulson (b. 1911- d. 2000) for Upsala Ekeby. Simmulson was a celebrated Swedish ceramics designer and ceramicist, known for many series she designed at Upsala Ekeby which went on to become classics. This hand-thrown and hand-glazed work comes from Simmulson's Iris series, these earthenware works were designed around 1956 to 1957. The series is characterised by the delightfully organic blue and white stripes that are edged with Vanilla cream dots. There is firm delineation between the stripes and dots combined with the glossy glaze gives this piece a very touchable, tactile quality. The combination of the organic lines in black, the 'sprinkled' blue and pink speckled white glaze that is highlighted by the cheerful cream dots makes brings a joyful vibe to the overall piece.

This design is typically more difficult to source and the great condition this particular piece is in makes it an even rarer find. Stylistically, this work is timeless and is suitable for standalone display or functionally as a vase, a bowl or even as a tealight lantern. 

CONDITION
Excellent - there are no chips, cracks or repairs on the exterior of the vase. Mentioned for completeness: there is a single chip on the underside of the 'frog' (flowerholder) c. 1cm x 0.6cm that is not visible during display.   The underside of the base is inscribed with Upsala Ekebys 'Ekeby' and Simmulson's 'ms' monogram as well as the model number '328'.

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 4.3" / 11 cm tall (from base to rim). Rim measurements: c. 7.2" /  18.2 cm (across widest point). 'Frog' (flower holder) diameter: c. 3.1" /  7.8 cm Base measurements: c.  3.5" / 8.8 cm. Depth: c. 3.7" / 9.3 cm (from rim). Unpackaged weight: c. 0.8 kg / 760 g

NOTES
Vase will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

A BIT OF HISTORY
Mari Peterson Särgava, ceramicist and textile artist (b. 1911- d. 2000) began her career with an internship with Arabia in Finland and it was during this time she married Gustaf Simmulson.

Simmulson moved to Sweden in 1944 and began working with Wilhelm Kåge at Gustavsbergs, staying until 1949. Her career took her to Uppsala Ekeby in 1949, where she designed vases, figures, reliefs and wall paintings, many of them noted as unique pieces. She became a leading designer at Uppsala Ekeby where she remained until the early 1970s. Simmulson also received commissions for public pieces including at Luleå Kol, Upplandsbanken and Pharmacia.

This striking work of mid-century Modern design is by Roger Capron (b.1922 - d.2006) for his ceramic studio factory in Vallauris, France. Alongside names such as Picasso, Robert Picault and Jean Derval, Capron was a key contributing figure in the renaissance of ceramics in Vallauris.

The bold use of the hand-painted, strong Charcoal black lines to separate and organically shape the high-colour, gloss-glazed sections is characteristic of Capron's design style. The setting of the colour palette against the backdrop of the luxuriantly sumptuous, silky matt-white base glaze is yet another Capron design trait that is applied to the rounded square bottle form. The vivid colour palette for this particular piece consists of Charcoal black, Goldenrod Yellow, Navy Ink blue and Persimmon orange which is a beautiful juxtaposition to the otherwise simple form.

This piece is both subtle and distinct at the same time, with a timelessness to its design that is suitable for standalone display or functionally as a simple Ikebana vase.

CONDITION
Very Good. There is mild surface wear to the glaze and movement marks on the underside of the base that is commensurable with age. Mentioned for completeness: There is one chip present on the underside of the base that measures c. 1cm x 0.4cm that does not detract from display. Important: Please see photographs as they form part of the condition report. The underside of the base bears the signature and identifying marks of: 'CAPRON, Vallauris, F22'

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 9.6" / 24.5 cm. Rim: c. 1" / 2.6 cm diameter. Body dimensions: c. 3.2" / 8.2 cm x c. 3.3" / 8.5 cm. Base measurements: c. 3.2" / 8.2 cm x c. 3.1" / 8 cm. Unpackaged weight: c. 0.6 kg / 600 g

NOTES
Bottle vase will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

A BIT OF HISTORY
Roger Capron (b. 1922 - d. 2006)
Capron was born in Vincennes, France in 1922 and became a student at the School of Applied Arts (École des Arts Appliqués à l'Industrie) in Paris at the age of 16, and by 1945, a professor at the same school. In 1946 and at the age of 24, Capron moved to Vallauris, setting up the 'l`Atelier Callis' workshop in collaboration with Robert Picault and Jean Derval. By 1952, he was ready to establish his own ceramic studio factory in Vallauris and within 5 years he'd developed a significant international reputation.

Capron work was known for its Modernistic emblematic forms with characteristics of his work represented in stylized branches, characters, geometrical suns that would functional works of art that made typically made a colourful and creative statement in the spaces they were displayed.

The studio factory sadly closed in 1982 due to the economic crisis but did not prevent the founding of Atelier Capron in 1983. In his lifetime, Capron won numerous design awards, enshrining him as a key contributing figure in ceramic design before his death in 2006.

This stylised work of British art pottery piece is of English late-Art Deco design from the 1930s and is by the pottery Empire Ware.

Beautifully sculptural and seemingly simple, this piece is a manifestation of the significant technique needed to result in its evenly hand-formed body. The Art Deco accents appear most prominently in the softly geometric, diamond form. The hand-painted, silky, semi-matte glaze décor on the interior is a beautifully dappled blending of Iced/Powdered Turquoise that graduates into the Iced Peach Tea tones. The exterior décor is a reflection of the interior with the same tones.

This piece has a gracefully elegant presence, an embodiment of English Art Deco design from c. 85 years ago. The combination of its form, colour palette and condition makes it a particularly rare find.

CONDITION
Superb. There are no chips, cracks or repairs. There is mild age-wear in the form of movement marks on the underside of the base and faint crazing all over that is commensurate with the age of the piece. Please refer to photographs as they form part of the condition report. The underside of the base is marked with Empire Ware's stamp.

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 3.5" / 9 cm by c. 12.4" / 31.5 cm length (across longest point). Width c. 8" / 20.2 cm (across widest point). Base measurements: c. 3" / 7.5 cm. Weight: c. 0.6 kg / 600 g

NOTES
Dish will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

A BIT OF HISTORY
Empire Ware began life as Empire Works, producing earthenware and porcelain in 1896 in Stoke-on-Trent. The company lasted through the decades reinventing themselves a few times until the works became too difficult to modernise and led to their closure in 1967. In more recent times, the mark 'Empire Ware Made in Portugal' appeared on the market however, pieces from this company are known as a tribute and reproductions of the original company.

This stunning, handblown work of Swedish Modernist design art glass is by Vicke Lindstrand (b. 1904 - d. 1983), who was considered as one of the most influential 20th-century glass artists and a pioneer of glass art. This particular piece comes from a series of 5 objects designed by Lindstrand between 1955-1956 for Kosta (Boda) glassworks. Similar to Wirkkala's Kantarelli (Chantarelle) series that was released around the same time, Lindstrand's series focuses on the gentle exaggeration and stylisation of organic curves and stripes. But whilst Wirkkala chose to create physically grooved stripes on his works, Lindstrand chose to embed feathering threads of Deep Espresso into the body of his series. 

These beautiful threads are in fact individual and separate but the prismatic quality that is typically found in Swedish crystal magnifies the bands to create a rolling effect in the stem. This magnificent piece stays true to the roots of Modernist design through the beautiful simplicity of form that speaks to an honest expression of the natural material.

CONDITION
Excellent. No chips, cracks or repair. There is negligible surface wear and movement marks on the underside of the base that is commensurable with the age of the piece. Please refer to photos as they form part of the condition report. The underside of the base is signed with Lindstrand's initials and model number "LH1210" and further impressed with Lindstrand's acid edged stamp. 

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 7.2" / 18.3 cm tall (from base to rim) x c. 6.5" / 16.5 cm in width (across widest point). Base measurements: 2.4" / 6.1 cm. Unpackaged weight: 1.2 kg / 1,185 g

NOTES
Dish will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

A BIT OF HISTORY
Vicke Lindstrand (b. 1904 - d. 1983) is considered as one of the most influential 20th-century glass artists and a pioneer of glass art. Lindstrand's prolific career included many design highlights, including his ability to excel at a technique called Cased Glass (known to many glass collectors as 'Sommerso'), in which a vividly coloured or patterned section of glass is surrounded by and seems to float within a clear crystal body.

Lindstrand's career began in commercial illustration before finding employment at the glass manufactory Orrefors. He would join Kosta Boda in 1950, remaining there until 1973. Beyond his commercial work, he also produced several massive public sculptures around the world. Today, his works are in many museum collections, such as the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston, and The Museum of Modern Art in New York.

Kosta Boda is Sweden’s oldest glass company, founded in 1742 and began making art glass — that is, unique and limited edition pieces — with the hiring of the painter Gunnar Wennerberg in 1898. Kosta Boda enjoys a reputation as the country’s most artistic and experimental glassworks, featuring artists and sculptors.

There are few Kosta Boda designers who stand foremost in the minds of collectors, one is Vicke Lindstrand, who excelled at a technique of 'Sommerso', or cased glass.

This vividly exquisite handblown work of mid-century Murano art glass brings with it the incredible beauty created by a number of expert Murano glass working techniques.

The expert techniques showcased in this handblown and sculpted piece of art glass includes:
- Satinato, the art glass technique that creates a 'frosted' or 'satin effect'
- Lattimo, also known as milk glass, as the final glass looks like fine china porcelain
- Zanferico, the glass technique that gives rise to elegantly striped and colourful objects. Different colours are fused together to form a striped mass that is then blown and shaped

As if the featuring of 3 exceptional Murano techniques was not enough, there is a further mother of pearl effect, Herringbone-patterned layer on the exterior surface, encasing the body. The work is finished with a ribbed and scalloped satin handle and a fluted ripple rim.

This stunning work is the Murano mid-century interpretation of Victorian art glass that enjoyed a popular revival at the time. The combination of the palette, condition, and form makes this piece a highly prized and rare find.

CONDITION
Excellent. No chips, cracks, or repairs. There is very faint and negligible surface wear on the exterior of the vase. Please refer to photos as they form part of the condition report.

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 8.9" / 22.7 cm x c. 3.7" / 9.5 cm wide (across widest point) x depth: c. 2.2" / 5.5cm. Base: c. 2.2" / 5.5 cm x c. 1.3" / 3.4. Rim c. 3.2" / 8.2 cm x c. 0.8" / 2 cm. Unpackaged weight: c. 0.8 kg / 790 g.

NOTES
The vase will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

This joyful work of iconically Swedish Mid Century design is by Mari Simmulson (b. 1911- d. 2000) for Upsala Ekeby. Simmulson was a celebrated Swedish ceramics designer and ceramicist, known for many series she designed at Upsala Ekeby which went on to become classics. This hand-thrown and hand-glazed work comes from Simmulson's well-known Salix series, these earthenware works were designed in 1953.

The series is characterised by the delightfully simple form, like that of an abstract 60s pinafore dress, the glossy glaze is a palette of Chocolate brown, with 'dot' discs of Pineapple yellow on Milk white. The form of this piece and palette is undeniably exuberant, striking and vivacious, combined with the size - makes this a particularly rare find. 

CONDITION
Excellent - there are no chips or repairs. There is a single hairline crack on the interior of the rim that does not appear on the exterior of the vase. There is age commensurate wear in the form on crazing on the interior of the vase. The underside of the base is inscribed with Upsala Ekebys 'UE Sweden' and Simmulson's 'ms' monogram as well as the model number '4130'.

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c.14" / 35.2 cm tall (from base to rim). Rim measurements: c. 3.7" / 9.5 cm x c. 3.1" / 8 cm. Diameter: c. 5" / 12.6 cm (across widest point). Base measurements: c. 5" / 12.6 cm. Unpackaged weight: c. 1.7 kg / 1,715 g

NOTES
Vase will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

A BIT OF HISTORY
Mari Peterson Särgava, ceramicist and textile artist (b. 1911- d. 2000) began her career with an internship with Arabia in Finland and it was during this time she married Gustaf Simmulson.

Simmulson moved to Sweden in 1944 and began working with Wilhelm Kåge at Gustavsbergs, staying until 1949. Her career took her to Uppsala Ekeby in 1949, where she designed vases, figures, reliefs and wall paintings, many of them noted as unique pieces. She became a leading designer at Uppsala Ekeby where she remained until the early 1970s. Simmulson also received commissions for public pieces including at Luleå Kol, Upplandsbanken and Pharmacia.

This exquisitely intricate Totai Shippo piece is dated to c.1880 from the Japanese Meiji era (1868-1912 ).

Totai Shippo is the technique of applying Cloisonné enamel to ceramic believed to have been discovered by Sukamoto Kaisuke (b.1828 - d.1887) some time around 1868. Traditional Cloisonné of using thin wire or metal to contain different coloured enamels applied to a metal vessel itself is already a revered technique. Totai Shippo elevates the technique to another level when you consider the detailed wired sections of this piece is as small as 1-2mm in width.

This particular piece bears two 'faces', a panel on each side that displays the detailed design of butterflies, Chrysanthemums and Anemones in tones of Dusted Powder and Cobalt Blue, Oxblood Red and Apple Green. Encircling the panels are features of Sakura buds and blossom interwoven with the Teal patterned background. 

This excellent work of art makes for a superbly decorative and highly collectable art feature.

CONDITION
Very Good. There is age-related wear to the enamel and crazing on the non-enamelled sections that is commensurable with the age of the piece, please see photos as they form part of the condition report.

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 3.9" / 10 cm by c. 3.4" / 8.6 cm diameter (across widest point). Base diameter: c. 1.9" /  4.7 cm. Rim diameter: c. 1.6" / 4.1 cm. Unpackaged weight: c. 0.2 kg / 220 g

NOTES
Jar will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

A BIT OF HISTORY
Japanese Cloisonne enamelware is a technique introduced to Japan around the Tokugawa period during the 16th century.

Cloisonne or 'Cloisonné' are metalwork objects with decoration that is applied by creating separating sections using wire or thin metal. The sections are filled with different coloured enamels to create a visual image or pattern and the whole piece be fired multiple times to realise the colours.

This stylised work of British art pottery piece is of English late-Art Deco design from the 1930s, with a colour palette similar to that of Monet's 'Wisteria' Impressionist painting.

Beautifully sculptural and seemingly simple, this piece is a manifestation of the significant technique needed to result in its evenly hand-formed body. The Art Deco accents appear most prominently in the softly geometric, diamond form. The hand-painted, silky, semi-matte glaze décor on the interior is a beautifully dappled blending of Azure blue tones with Golden Sand, Teal Green and Chocolate Brown. The exterior décor is a reflection of the interior with the same tones that is edged at the base with the Chocolate Brown. 

This piece has a gracefully elegant presence, an embodiment of English Art Deco design from c. 85 years ago. The combination of its form, colour palette and condition makes it a particularly rare find.

CONDITION
Superb. There are no chips, cracks or repairs. There mild age-wear in the form of movement marks on the underside of the base that is commensurate with the age of the piece. Please refer to photographs as they form part of the condition report. The underside of the base is unmarked. 

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 3.5" / 9 cm by c. 12.4" / 31.5 cm length (across longest point). Width c. 8.3" / 21 cm (across widest point). Base measurements: c. 6.1" / 15.5 cm x  3.9" / 10 cm. Weight: c. 0.6 kg / 600 g

NOTES
Dish will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

Wadeheath Ceramics 1867 - present
Wadeheath Ceramics was originally founded in 1867, in Burslem, England, a collective of different pottery companies that specialised in earthenware and porcelain.

The original companies were:

• Wade & Myatt (later became George Wade & Son, which made industrial ceramics and Wade Whimsies). Established 1867.
• John Wade & Co (later Wade Heath & Co, which made decorative ware, particularly Art Deco vases in the 1930s). Established 1867.
• J & W Wade (later AJ Wade Ltd, which made tiles, notably the original tiles for the London Underground). Established 1891.

Wade made its way into history with beautiful ceramic art ware known as Flaxman Ware in the Art Deco style by Wade Heath & Co and its figure collection known as Wade Whimsies that became hugely popular in the UK and America in the 1950s.

This elegant work of Swedish Mid Century Modern design is by Hjördis Oldfors (b. 1920 - d. 2014) for Upsala Ekeby. Oldfors was a celebrated Swedish ceramicist, painting, and textile artist, known for many series she designed at Upsala Ekeby which went on to become classics.

This hand-thrown and hand-glazed work comes from Oldfors popular Kokos series, for which there are ten works of earthenware bowls and vases designed in 1954. The series is characterised by the clean-lined, swelling forms and the deliciously tactile decor. The decor is an arrangement of sgraffito bands of glossy Dandelion yellow glaze alternating with the unglazed Dark Chocolate earthenware. The combination of the silky smooth glaze bands and the unglazed elements present a striking and tactile contrast.

The form of this piece and of the series is undeniably Modernist in design, highlighting the seamless harmony of function, form, and the raw materials

CONDITION
Excellent - there are no chips, cracks or repairs. There is mild and age-commensurate wear to the body and faint movement marks on the underside of the base. The underside of the base is inscribed with Upsala Ekebys 'UE' and Oldfors 'HJ' monogram and the model number '5080'.

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 5.5" / 14 cm tall (from base to rim). Rim measurements: c. 4.3" / 11 cm x c. 2.8" / 7 cm. Diameter: c. 5.7" / 14.6 cm (across widest point). Base measurements: c. 1.9" / 4.7 cm. Unpackaged weight: c. 0.8 kg / 795 g

NOTES
Vase will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

A BIT OF HISTORY
Hjördis Hanna Maria Oldfors (b. 1920 - d. 2014) was a celebrated Swedish ceramicist, painting, and textile artist. Oldfors is known for many series she designed at Upsala Ekeby which went on to become classics; including Poäng (Points), Kokos (Coconut), Trio (Trio), Palma (Palma), and Granit (Granite). Oldfors is represented at a number of museums including; National Museum (Sweden), Röhsska Museum, and at the Nordenfjeldske Konstindustrimuseum.

Though Oldfors was a late arrival to her ceramics career, beginning her studies in 1947 in Gothenburg, she became incredibly successful. Her career at Upsala Ekeby began in 1950 when she was 30 and she would go on to set up her own studio 'Bränd Form' with a number of exhibitions representing Upsala Ekeby and her own studio. The curators of the day are notably known to have said "She has an astonishing certainty in the abstract decor and its adaptation to the form. In this area, she does not have many competitors in our ceramics."

This delicious work of Swedish Mid Century Modern design is by Mari Simmulson (b. 1911- d. 2000) for Upsala Ekeby. Simmulson was a celebrated Swedish ceramics designer and ceramicist, known for many series she designed at Upsala Ekeby which went on to become classics. 

This hand-thrown and hand-glazed work comes from Simmulson's well-known Ringo series, there are eighteen works of earthenware bowls and vases that were designed in 1965. The series is characterised by the delightfully textured Chocolate Cookies unglazed earthenware body that is overlaid with the Dark Chocolate striped bands of semi matte glaze. The silky Dark Chocolate glaze is also beautifully featured on the neck, shoulders and underside of the vase, juxtaposing the earthenware. This particular piece is finished with a circle of semi-matte Pale Lemon dots, an iconic accent to the series. The form of this piece and of the series is undeniably Modernist in design, highlighting the seamless harmony of function, form and the raw materials. 

CONDITION
Excellent - there are no chips, cracks or repairs. There is age commensurate wear in the form of faint movement marks on the underside of the base. The underside of the base is inscribed with Upsala Ekebys 'UE Sweden' and Simmulson's 'ms' monogram as well as the model number '5059M'.

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 5,1" / 13 cm tall (from base to rim). Rim measurements: c. 2.6" / 6.7 cm. Diameter: c. 4.3" / 11 cm (across widest point). Base measurements: c. 3.5" / 8.8 cm. Unpackaged weight: c. 0.6 kg / 615 g

NOTES
Vase will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

A BIT OF HISTORY
Mari Peterson Särgava, ceramicist and textile artist (b. 1911- d. 2000) began her career with an internship with Arabia in Finland and it was during this time she married Gustaf Simmulson.

Simmulson moved to Sweden in 1944 and began working with Wilhelm Kåge at Gustavsbergs, staying until 1949. Her career took her to Uppsala Ekeby in 1949, where she designed vases, figures, reliefs and wall paintings, many of them noted as unique pieces. She became a leading designer at Uppsala Ekeby where she remained until the early 1970s. Simmulson also received commissions for public pieces including at Luleå Kol, Upplandsbanken and Pharmacia. 

This elegantly ethereal duo of handblown Swedish art glass miniatures is by Bertil Vallien, (b. 1938 - ), internationally celebrated Swedish glass artist, sculptor, ceramist, and designer for Kosta Boda, one of Sweden's leading glassworks.

Those familiar with the process of hand-blowing or hot working glass will know that glass needs to reach 1,320 °C (2,400 °F) to melt and even the working temperature is 1,090 °C (2,000 °F). This knowledge helps to appreciate the care, effort, and skill required to create these miniature works of art glass.

The blue pipe vase bearing the signature winding stripes is from Vallien's Rainbow series, designed in the 1980s. However, it is created in the uncommon and translucent Pale Powdered blue with traces of a golden-sand toned frit glass interwoven into the body.

The lidded pot is even more unusual and has not been attributable to a series, though it is a Vallien signed piece with its original label intact. The body and lid are also in an airy, Pale Powdered blue tone, very similar to the tone used in Vallien's Starlight series. The piece is finished with a clear curl finial on the lid.

Both pieces carry labels that display the parent company of Kosta Boda AB, this name came into use in 1976 before changing to Orrefors Kosta Boda AB in 1989.

CONDITION
Excellent. No chips, cracks, or repairs, please see photos as they form part of the condition report.
- Blue Rainbow Vase - the piece is inscribed with "BODA, ARTIST COL, B VALLIEN, 48282"
- Starlight Blue Lidded pot - the piece is inscribed with "Kosta Boda, B Vallien"

MEASUREMENTS
- Blue Rainbow Vase: Height: c. 2.5" / 6.3 cm x c. 1.8" / 4.6 cm rim diameter. Base diameter: c. 1.3" / 3.2 cm.
- Starlight Blue Lidded pot: Height: c. 4.1" / 10.5 cm (including lid). Diameter: c. 2.3" / 5.9 cm.
Unpackaged weight [all pieces]: c. 0.2 kg / 225 g

NOTES
Duo will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

A BIT OF HISTORY
Born 1938, Bertil Vallien was only 15 when he left home, drawn by the allure of the big city. After a series of occasional jobs, as a window-dresser at one of the main department stores in Stockholm, and as an apprentice in his father's decorating firm, Vallien would eventually decide to become an artist which would lead him into the world of ceramics. The guidance he received in his early career included that of Stig Lindberg - one of Sweden's foremost designers of ceramic art and one of the leading designers for Rörstrand in the 1970's.

Today, Vallien is one of the most well-known representatives of 20th century Swedish ceramic and art glass design and is represented at the Swedish National Museum of Art and Design as well as abroad in the Everson Museum of Art of New York. Vallien's works have only become more collectable over the years with sculptures from his Head and Journey (Boat) series fetching up to $20,000 USD.

This exquisite work of 70s Modernist studio art ceramic is by master ceramist Reiner Gehrig (b. 1938 - ) Grünstadt Studio. Gehrig owned Grünstadt, enjoying a long and successful career before retiring in 2013.

This brilliantly executed work is a shining example of Gehrig's signature style, a fusion of a sculpted, lightly geometric, polished form combined with a touch-inviting, sumptuous running glaze. 

The deceptively simple bottle form is crafted with inflection points which create the three softly geometric segments and is finished with an elegantly tapered neck. The base glaze to this piece is a rich hares fur glaze of matte brown tones from deep Umber to tones of warm Cedar, Cinnamon and Coffee. Overlaid onto the base glaze is resplendent running blue glaze in tones of Azure, Cobalt, Aegean and Indigo which intersperses with earthy hues of Cedar and Blonde. 

CONDITION
Excellent- no chips, cracks or repairs. There is mild wear on the underside of the base that is commensurate with the age of the piece. Mentioned for completeness: there is the polishing on the underside of the base that is from the production process and is not damage. Please see photos as they form part of the condition report. The underside also bears Gehrig's signature 'g' pottery mark.

MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 7.5" / 19 cm tall by c. 4.9" / 12.5 cm wide (across the body's widest point). Base diameter: c. 1.9" / 4.8 cm. Rim diameter: c. 0.6" / 1.6 cm. Unpackaged weight: c. 0.6 kg / 630 g

NOTES
Vase will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.

A BIT OF HISTORY
Gehrig began apprenticing with ceramics in 1954, at the age of 16. He would work his way through apprenticeship to journeyman until he attended and graduated in 1961 from the master class with Hubert Griemert (b. 1905 - d. 1990) in Höhr-Grenzhause. Griemert was an important figure in the German studio pottery world, a professor, master potter who often designed for KPM Berlin. 

After graduating, Gehrig spent some years working for recognised names such as JLKnödgen,  Van Daalen, Ulmer Keramik, Steingutfabrik Grünstadt before establishing his own studio in 1974. 

Gehrig is known for having quickly and confidently developed his own style, becoming particularly proficient with turning difficult forms. He was known to work in ceramic, porcelain, stoneware and developing a rich range of glazes, from running to salt glaze.

In his long career, Gehrig was awarded the Palatinate Prize for arts and crafts and his work features in collections at the Deidesheim, Museum of Modern Ceramics, Höhr-Grenzhausen, and the Ceramic Museum Westerwald Mainz, Ministry of Culture.