THE ITEM
This superb work of Italian Mid Century Modernist design is by the Bertoncello pottery that was sadly closed in 1999.
The glaze is silky and smooth to touch and visually, is a refined blending of rich and golden ochre, tinged with sienna which gives added depth. Step back to look at the piece as a whole, it resembles well-aged tanned leather or Italian marble.
Like Antoni Gaudi's architecture, there are no sharp angles or perfectly straight lines to this piece but nor are there unnecessarily exaggerated curves where there shouldn't be. Overall, there is great aesthetic balance.
A rare size, the height and width lends great presence and makes this piece a work of art that can hold court in its own space and would perhaps even tower over others in a collection. Would suit a retro, mid century modern, contemporary, vintage or even industrial decor themed room.
A BIT OF HISTORY
Bertoncello Ceramiche was founded in Schiavon, Italy around 1956. For many years it was run solely by a Mr. Lini and Giovanni Bertoncello (1930-2011), but by the 1970s had a staff of around 30. Giovanni was the creative force behind the forms and glazes, supported later by a Mr. Boatto – a Venetian teacher.
Sadly not a lot is known about the company because all its catalogues and archives were destroyed when the company closed in 1999. The forms of Bertoncello pottery are often very sculptural, modern and organic and some look like smaller studies or maquettes for massive modernist sculptures that are yet to be built. This sculptural appearance of many pieces was enhanced by the use of feet which subtly raise the piece off the surface on which it sits.
CONDITION
Excellent, only very light movement marks to the base - commensurable with age of the piece - no chips, scratches, cracks or crazing to the vase body. There are a few tiny 'fleabite' chips along the rim of the base which are not noticeable when the vase is upright - please see photos as part of the condition report. Base bears the number '933'.
MEASUREMENTS
c. 16" / 41 cm tall by c. 8" / 20 cm wide (across body's widest point)
Unpackaged weight: c. 1.5 kg / 1,539 g
NOTES
Vase will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured.
Shipping will be combined for multiple items.