Sea Lion, by John Skeaping. Wedgwood C1925.

About the Item

In creamware, with moonstone glaze. The mould sculpted by John Skeaping. Signed for both Wedgwood and Skeaping. Skeaping was commissioned by Wedgwood to produce a series of animal sculptures in the Art Deco style. They were designed to be simple, both to accord with the current aesthetic, and to make them easy to manufacture - the entire piece could be made in a single mold. His animal series is considered a classic of the period. John Skeaping (1901–1980) was a renowned British sculptor celebrated for his dynamic and expressive works primarily focusing on animals and equestrian subjects. Born in London, England, Skeaping's artistic talents emerged at an early age. He studied at the Royal Academy Schools and later at the Royal College of Art, where he honed his skills and developed a deep appreciation for sculptural form. In the early stages of his career, Skeaping gained recognition for his exceptional talent in depicting animals, particularly horses. His sculptures captured the essence of movement and vitality, showcasing a profound understanding of anatomy and a keen eye for detail. Skeaping's fascination with equestrian subjects stemmed from his childhood experiences and his admiration for the grace and power of these animals. During the 1920s and 1930s, Skeaping's reputation as a sculptor grew rapidly, earning him prestigious commissions and accolades. His works were characterized by their fluidity and elegance, reflecting his mastery of sculptural techniques and his ability to breathe life into his subjects. Notable pieces from this period include "Mare and Foal" and "Horse and Rider," which exemplify Skeaping's skillful craftsmanship and his ability to evoke emotion through his art. John Skeaping's artistic endeavors extended beyond traditional sculpture, as he also collaborated with renowned manufacturers such as Wedgwood, the esteemed British pottery company. His partnership with Wedgwood resulted in the creation of exquisite ceramic pieces that reflected his distinctive style and mastery of form. Skeaping's designs for Wedgwood combined his passion for sculpture with the craftsmanship of ceramics, resulting in pieces that were both elegant and timeless. His ability to translate his sculptural vision into three-dimensional ceramic forms earned him widespread acclaim and further solidified his reputation as a versatile and innovative artist.

Creator:

John Rattenbury Skeaping (Sculptor),Wedgwood (Manufacturer)

Dimensions:

Height: 8.08 in (20.5 cm)Width: 8.27 in (21 cm)Depth: 6.5 in (16.5 cm)

Style:

Art Deco (Of the Period)

Materials and Techniques:

Creamware,Molded

Place of Origin:

United Kingdom

Period:

1920-1929