1950s Italian Lifesize Ceramic Poodle

This charming antique sculpture was crafted by WMF, short for Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik, a renowned German manufacturer of fine metalware founded in 1853 and still in operation today. While best known for its tableware designs, WMF also produced a variety of decorative objects, including sculptures, exemplified by this delightful piece from our collection. The sculpture depicts a young boy dressed in typical late 19th to early 20th century working-class attire, including a flat cap. An apron tied around his waist suggests he is at work - possibly as a florist, as implied by the large scrolls cradled in his arms. These scrolls were originally aimed to be used as pen holders but can also serve to display other small items. Finely cast, the sculpture features intricate details such as fabric folds and hair texture, all enhanced by its monochrome oxidised finish. The figure stands atop an ornate Rococo style base adorned with C-scrolls, which also serve as the feet of the piece. The base is stamped ‘WMFB’, indicating both the manufacturer and the use of Britannia metal. Below this is the ‘OX’ mark, denoting that the surface has been oxidised - a process in which recessed areas are chemically darkened while raised surfaces are polished to a matte finish using pumice. An indistinct ’18’ mark is also stamped on the base. Blending stylistic elegance with technical craftsmanship, this antique pen holder...

This dainty figure was crafted around 1900 by WMF, short for Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik. Founded in 1853, this German firm continues to operate today. While historically best...

Exceptionally beautiful bust carved in the finest quality craftsmanship. Used is an extremely heavy and extremely hard wood. Presumably, the sculpture comes from the time when it c...

Beautiful, small bronze figure, probably a holder for matches. The pannier on the back of the sculpture can be used to store small items. For examp...

Sporting a 'Dutch Cut' to his coat, this adorable ceramic poodle stands tall and proud Collar and feet are gilded, the glaze is a delicious toffee caramel colour and the eyes are pin...

'Bucchero' female head / bust attributed to Giò Ponti and Carlo Alberto Rossi. Mid 20th century, Italy. This is a rare and marvelous little mid century ceramic head / bust by Carlo Alberto Rossi after a design attributed to Giò Ponti. Very stylistic and elegant. The ceramic gets its characteristic black color through a special process in which the oxygen is removed from the red clay. So no paint or varnish is used. This is a technique that dates back to the Etruscans. Many works by Carlo Alberto Rossi and his brother – with whom he collaborated – have the characteristic black color. The Rossi brothers collaborated with the famous architect and designer Gio Ponti. Several of his designs – including this head – were executed in the Rossi’s studio. The collaboration was a great success. Some of the works were also shown at the IX Triennale of Milan in 1951. Please note we have a selection of 'Bucchero' pieces by Gubbio artists C. A. Rossi, Sebastiani and Elio Cerbella...

Italian ceramic terrier. 1950s. Very Hollywood Regency.

Midcentury ceramic sculpture of a horse head, typical Italian manufacture from the 1950s.