Richard Le Corrone Greek Stoneware Vase, Ciboure, Early 1950s

About the Item

Large Stoneware Vase by Richard Le Corrone, Ciboure, France, Early 1950s. Important French stoneware vase created in the early 1950s by Richard Le Corrone for the renowned Ciboure pottery, on the Basque coast of France. This large-scale vase demonstrates a very high level of technical and artistic mastery, featuring a finely executed rotating Greek-inspired frieze (décor tournant). The stylized continuous scene depicts Artemis and Apollo hunting with their dogs, rendered with rhythmic movement and strong graphic balance. The decoration is executed using the traditional Jarraila technique, characteristic of Ciboure stoneware, allowing for crisp line work and remarkable depth within the ceramic surface. The form is powerful yet harmonious, fully consistent with the atelier’s philosophy of combining classical antiquity, Art Deco geometry, and Basque ceramic traditions. Origin: Ciboure, Basque Coast, France Period: Early 1950s Material: Stoneware Technique: Jarraila, rotating Greek décor Dimensions Height: 11 in. (28 cm) Diameter: 9.45 in. (24 cm) Marks Signed “R. Le Corrone” Stamped “RF CIBOURE” under the base Condition Very good vintage condition, with excellent preservation of the decoration. A museum-quality example of mid-20th-century French ceramic art, highly collectible for its mythological subject, scale, and clear attribution to both Richard Le Corrone and Ciboure. Ciboure Pottery – Historical Overview Ciboure pottery was founded in 1919 on the French Basque coast by Étienne Vilotte (1881–1957), Louis Benjamin Victor Floutier (1882–1936), and an associate known as Lukas. The company was formally established in 1922, with Vilotte acting as managing director. From its inception, Ciboure developed a distinct and highly recognizable style, drawing heavily from classical antiquity and Neo-Greek influences, while also integrating Art Deco aesthetics and regional Basque traditions. The forms were inspired by ancient Mediterranean vessels and traditional Basque containers, while stoneware was favored for its expressive surface and structural strength. In 1945, the pottery was acquired by Rudolf Fischer, who introduced significant technical and artistic changes. In 1951, he established the new stamp “RF CIBOURE”, replacing the earlier “VE CIBOURE”, later followed by “MF CIBOURE” under his son Max Fischer. Fischer modernized production through improved molding techniques, more oxidizing firings, and the development of both decorative and utilitarian wares. Ciboure’s success was driven not only by the originality and quality of its ceramics, but also by strong commercial distribution, notably through major Parisian department stores. Today, Ciboure is considered one of the most important French ceramic workshops of the 20th century. Biography – Richard Le Corrone (1909–1977) Richard Le Corrone (1909–1977) was one of the most important designers associated with Ciboure pottery during its mature period. Active primarily between the 1930s and 1950s, he is especially known for his Greek-inspired mythological decorations, rotating friezes, and masterful use of the Jarraila technique. Le Corrone’s work is characterized by precise line quality, strong rhythmic compositions, and a deep understanding of classical iconography, often depicting gods, hunters, animals, and allegorical scenes. His designs reflect a refined synthesis of antique Greek art, Art Deco stylization, and modern ceramic craftsmanship. Signed works by Richard Le Corrone are highly sought after and represent some of the most sophisticated and collectible productions of Ciboure, particularly those bearing the RF CIBOURE stamp from the post-war period.

Creator:
Ciboure (Maker),Richard Le Corrone (Artist)
Dimensions:
Height: 11.03 in (28 cm)Diameter: 9.45 in (24 cm)
Style:
Art Deco (In the Style Of)
Materials and Techniques:
Ceramic,Stoneware
Place of Origin:
France
Period:
1950-1959
Date of Manufacture:
Early 1950s
Condition:
Seller Location:
Saint-Amans-des-Cots, FR
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU2312348323782