Currently held on consignment at Andrews Oakville
This exceptionally sculptural work of Italian mid-century Modern design by the Bertoncello Ceramiche D'Arte (estd. c.1956 - c.1999). The form is that of a 3D crescent moon partially embedded into the surface the piece rests upon. The sumptuous glaze of this piece is silky to touch that is not too overtly glossy. Visually, it presents as a refined blending of rich, Vanilla Cream that is feathered with deep sienna, giving additional depth. Take a step back to view this piece as a whole and the effect resembles leather or marbled stone.
This work would suit a space with Modernist, Minimalist and Mid Century décor, either as a standalone work of art ceramic or functionally as a vase or planter. The majestic size, refined form and overall condition of this piece makes it a rare find.
CONDITION
Excellent, there are no chips, cracks or repairs. There is imperceptible use wear, most visible in the 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 form number '972' is marked on the underside of the base.
MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 10.2" / 26 cm. Length c. 11" / 28 cm (across body's longest point). Depth: c. 4.7" / 12 cm. Base measurements: c. 5.9" / 15 cm x c. 3" / 7.6 cm. Unpackaged weight: c. 1.3 kg / 1,285 g
A BIT OF HISTORY
Bertoncello Ceramiche D'Arte was founded in Schiavon, Italy around 1956 and was first known as LBP, an acronym created with the first letters of the founders surnames Mr Lini, Giovanni Bertoncello and Mr Pizzato.
For many years it was run solely by Giovanni Bertoncello (b. 1930 - d. 2011) and his brother Felice after Mr Lini left the company a few years after the pottery's founding. By the 1970s the pottery had grown to a staff of around 30 with Giovanni being the creative driving force behind the forms and glazes. In the early years, Giovanni benefited from some support from a Venetian teacher, Mr. Boatto.
Sadly not a lot is known about the company as all its catalogues and archives were destroyed when the company closed in 1999, however, the legacy of Bertoncello's design is undeniable in the history of Italian mid-century art ceramics.
Bertoncello's signature designs are often very sculptural, with echoes of geometricism and modern architecture. Dramatic curves, rounded edges and corners, pierced forms and an organic feel are recurring features