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Mid-Century Fat Lava Ceramic Cross
About the Item
This mid-century wall cross embodies the distinctive European design ethos of the 1950s, masterfully handcrafted by a studio pottery artist. The piece features a "fat lava" glaze, a hallmark of the period, renowned for its thick, bubbly texture that creates a dramatic and tactile surface. This particular cross showcases a grey-white glaze overlying the robust terra cotta red of the clay body, presenting a striking visual contrast that is both rugged and delicate.
The form of the cross itself is slender and minimalist, a design choice reflective of the modernist movement's lean towards simplicity and functional beauty. This minimalist form is artfully juxtaposed with the maximalist texture of the fat lava glaze, offering a visual and tactile play between excess and restraint.
This texture, reminiscent of volcanic surfaces, gives the cross an almost otherworldly appearance, while the grey and white tones evoke a sense of tranquility and reverence suitable for a devotional object. The cross's slim profile, combined with the depth of the glaze's texture, allows it to stand out as a significant piece of both religious significance and artistic innovation.
As a representation of mid-century European studio pottery, this ceramic cross not only serves as a spiritual emblem but also as a testament to the period's exploration of new textures and forms in ceramic art. It is a unique artifact that would have been a focal point in any space, reflecting the era's passion for combining traditional craftsmanship with avant-garde design.
Our European cross collection (Tradition & Modernism) is composed of one-of-a-kind, handcrafted pieces made by Studio Pottery artists from the 1950s to 1970s. They show a range of diverse styles, from modernism to brutalism. Each artist has taken a unique approach to depict faith through the language of art and the medium of ceramics.
Through this collection, artists merge artistic expression with traditional religious iconography, blending established symbols, motifs, and narratives with contemporary artistic styles. This thoughtful and deliberate endeavor demands both artistic skill and a profound understanding of the cultural and spiritual significance of the subject matter. Through this synthesis, artists create works that reflect their individual creativity while honoring centuries-old traditions of religious imagery. The resulting artworks resonate with both aesthetic and spiritual significance, offering viewers a seamless integration of artistic and religious elements.
- Dimensions:Height: 8.5 in (21.59 cm)Width: 5.5 in (13.97 cm)Depth: 0.38 in (9.66 mm)
- Style:Mid-Century Modern (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:Circa 1950
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:Chicago, IL
- Reference Number:
About the Seller
5.0
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Established in 2013
1stDibs seller since 2021
21 sales on 1stDibs
Typical response time: 2 hours
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Ships From: Chicago, IL
- Return PolicyA return for this item may be initiated within 3 days of delivery.
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