Italian Mid-Century Modern Sgraffito Ceramic Vase
Decorative Arts / Art Pottery

Italian Mid-Century Modern Sgraffito Ceramic Vase

This item is a wheel-thrown ceramic decorative vase, likely of Italian origin, dating from the mid-20th century (circa 1950s-1960s). The vase features a flared, trumpet-style rim that transitions into a narrowed neck before swelling into a globular, rounded body with a flat base. The decorative technique is known as sgraffito, where the potter has incised rhythmic, circular, and spiraling patterns through a top layer of slip to reveal the contrasting clay body underneath. The color palette is characterized by a cream or off-white base glaze with accents of chartreuse yellow and charcoal gray banding around the neck. The incised patterns on the body consist of stylized geometric scrolls. Physically, the piece appears to be made of an earthenware clay. Regarding condition, there is visible surface wear consistent with age, including minor scuffing on the glaze and potential light crazing, though no significant structural cracks or large chips are immediately apparent. The craftsmanship shows a hand-crafted quality with slightly asymmetrical banding, a hallmark of artisan production from the Bitossi or Fratelli Fanciullacci style period. The matte finish and linear texture around the neck provide a distinct tactile quality typical of the era's brutalist-inspired ceramic trends.

Estimated Value

$450 - $650

Basic Information

Category

Decorative Arts / Art Pottery

Appraised On

March 12, 2026

Estimated Value

$450 - $650

Item Description

This item is a wheel-thrown ceramic decorative vase, likely of Italian origin, dating from the mid-20th century (circa 1950s-1960s). The vase features a flared, trumpet-style rim that transitions into a narrowed neck before swelling into a globular, rounded body with a flat base. The decorative technique is known as sgraffito, where the potter has incised rhythmic, circular, and spiraling patterns through a top layer of slip to reveal the contrasting clay body underneath. The color palette is characterized by a cream or off-white base glaze with accents of chartreuse yellow and charcoal gray banding around the neck. The incised patterns on the body consist of stylized geometric scrolls. Physically, the piece appears to be made of an earthenware clay. Regarding condition, there is visible surface wear consistent with age, including minor scuffing on the glaze and potential light crazing, though no significant structural cracks or large chips are immediately apparent. The craftsmanship shows a hand-crafted quality with slightly asymmetrical banding, a hallmark of artisan production from the Bitossi or Fratelli Fanciullacci style period. The matte finish and linear texture around the neck provide a distinct tactile quality typical of the era's brutalist-inspired ceramic trends.

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