Cabinet of Curiosities by Milan Pekař, Vavra, Skrivankova

Known for his innovative use of crystalline glazes on his ceramics and decorative vases, ceramicist Milan Pekar works in an enigmatic, experimental style that results in artistic, modern and practical furniture and objects. 

Born in 1980 in Prague, Pekar studied ceramics and porcelain at the city’s Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design (AAAD) and earned his MFA in 2006. He also studied at the University of Art and Design in Helsinki, Finland in 2005. Since 2011, Pekar has worked as an assistant professor in the studio of ceramics and porcelain at AAAD.

In 2009, Pekar established his studio — Milan Pekar Studio — in Prague. For the past several years, his work has focused primarily on the development of specialized crystalline glazes in which crystals grow in constellations and clusters on ceramic surfaces. Although the process is not new, Pekar’s forward-looking design sensibility and use of unique color combinations in his porcelain urns, candle holders and other decorative objects truly distinguishes his work in the very crowded field of ceramics.

In addition to his vases, Pekar creates ceramic furniture “shaped from soft extruded profiles.” Described as a cross between sculpture and furniture, Pekar’s collection includes his quirky ceramic floor lamps and table lamps and tube-like stools which can double as side tables. Pekar has also collaborated with several designers to create his cabinets and dry bars. These pieces include the exotic wood and ceramic mosaic Gradient cabinet, which he designed with cabinet maker Jakub Vávra, and the multicolored Cabinet of Curiosities, which was created with Vávra and painter Lucie Jindrák Skrivánkova.

Pekar’s works have been exhibited internationally at galleries and museums throughout Europe and Asia. His pieces are also included in public collections at the Museum of Decorative Arts, the Grassi Museum and the Museum of Decorative Arts.

On 1stDibs, find a range of Milan Pekar decorative objects, seating and tables.

Galerie Philia is an international contemporary sculptural design and art gallery representing emerging and established designers and artists. The gallery is the brainchild of two brothers who share a lifetime passion for art, literature and philosophy. Their distinct academic background sets them apart from their peers, as it sees them following a rhizomatic and transcultural approach in the way they select works. This involves combining elements from multiple cultures in what becomes a network of harmoniously interconnected roots, ultimately revealing the beauty of each unique creation. The gallery’s non-hierarchical curation sits apart from the ephemerality of trends and focuses instead on the true aesthetic quality of the piece – alluring and timeless. Unlike others, Galerie Philia does not focus on a single style – whether minimalist, organic or raw – but rather embraces heterogeneity. The Galerie Philia takes pride in discovering new talents, providing them with multiple international platforms to showcase their latest creations. As well as propelling the newest generation of 21st century collectible design, Galerie Philia also works with internationally known design artists. Galerie Philia has a strong international presence, with galleries in Geneva, New York and Singapore. In addition to their permanent spaces, the gallery organizes temporary group exhibitions and artists residencies in first-class locations around the world.