
Mid-Century Modern Italian Red and Gold Sgraffito Ceramic Cilindrical Vase
This is a tall, cylindrical ceramic floor or tabletop vase featuring a striking high-relief decorative scheme. The vessel is constructed with a heavy terracotta or stoneware body, standing approximately 15 to 18 inches tall. The exterior surface is characterized by a complex, multi-layered glaze technique. A thick, glossy oxblood red glaze was applied over a deeply textured, pitted sand-colored base. The red glaze forms a fluid, stylized foliate or interlocking scroll pattern reminiscent of the Italian 'Sgraffito' or 'Bitossi' style popular during the mid-20th century. This raised pattern provides a dramatic contrast against the recessed, rough-textured buff areas which appear to have a dark wash to accentuate the sponge-like pitting. The rim is slightly tapered and finished with the same red glaze, while the base remains flat. In terms of condition, there is a visible white retail label on the upper right shoulder, but the ceramic itself shows no immediate signs of major chips or structural cracks. The glaze remains vibrant, though typical shelf wear on the unglazed bottom interface is to be expected. The craftsmanship indicates a production piece likely from an Italian or Mediterranean studio dating between the late 1960s and early 1980s, emphasizing bold Brutalist textures and Mediterranean color palettes.
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Estimated Value
$450 - $650
Basic Information
Category
Decorative Arts / Ceramics
Appraised On
April 28, 2026
Estimated Value
$450 - $650
Item Description
This is a tall, cylindrical ceramic floor or tabletop vase featuring a striking high-relief decorative scheme. The vessel is constructed with a heavy terracotta or stoneware body, standing approximately 15 to 18 inches tall. The exterior surface is characterized by a complex, multi-layered glaze technique. A thick, glossy oxblood red glaze was applied over a deeply textured, pitted sand-colored base. The red glaze forms a fluid, stylized foliate or interlocking scroll pattern reminiscent of the Italian 'Sgraffito' or 'Bitossi' style popular during the mid-20th century. This raised pattern provides a dramatic contrast against the recessed, rough-textured buff areas which appear to have a dark wash to accentuate the sponge-like pitting. The rim is slightly tapered and finished with the same red glaze, while the base remains flat. In terms of condition, there is a visible white retail label on the upper right shoulder, but the ceramic itself shows no immediate signs of major chips or structural cracks. The glaze remains vibrant, though typical shelf wear on the unglazed bottom interface is to be expected. The craftsmanship indicates a production piece likely from an Italian or Mediterranean studio dating between the late 1960s and early 1980s, emphasizing bold Brutalist textures and Mediterranean color palettes.
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