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Verdant Mid-Century Ceramic Maltese Cross
About the Item
This robustly glazed ceramic Maltese cross represents the confluence of religious symbolism and mid-century modern aesthetics, crafted by the hands of European studio pottery artists. The cross is characterized by its equilateral arms and a deep, emerald green glaze that suggests a connection to nature and life, resonating with the period's affinity for organic hues and textures.
At the center, a rough-textured, volcanic-like overglaze in stark black provides a dramatic visual and tactile contrast, perhaps symbolizing the tumultuous intersection of human suffering with divine grace. The Maltese cross shape, with its historical associations of courage and sacrifice, is reinterpreted here with a modernist touch, bearing the minimalist yet bold statement of mid-century artistry.
Each arm of the cross is accented with a thin, red line, framing the green and adding an additional layer of depth and complexity to the piece. The red lines converge at the center, drawing the eye to the core of the cross where the black overglaze erupts. This convergence can be seen as a metaphor for the convergence of earthly struggles and celestial hope.
This object is as much a piece of spiritual contemplation as it is a representative of its time—when artists were exploring the boundaries of materials and meanings, and when studio pottery became a vessel for both personal expression and functional art. The cross's design is indicative of a period when traditional symbols were being re-envisioned through the lens of contemporary culture and artistic movements.
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: 3.25 in (8.26 cm)Width: 3 in (7.62 cm)Depth: 0.25 in (6.35 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:
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