Futurist Ceramic Vase from C.I.M.A Deruta, Italy, 1930s

Details

Description

Object description:
very rare and spectacular avant-garde vase from the “aeroceramica” line, entirely wheel-thrown and hand-painted. It is attributed to … Read more Object description:
very rare and spectacular avant-garde vase from the “aeroceramica” line, entirely wheel-thrown and hand-painted. It is attributed to sculptor and designer nino strada (1904–1968), for the famous c.i.m.a. (consorzio italiano maioliche artistiche) of deruta, and can be precisely dated to the 1930s, during the height of the second futurism / art deco period.

the underside bears the manufacturer’s hand-painted “dervta” mark, featuring the archaic “v” characteristic of the taste of italy’s fascist period.

the piece is presented as a sculptural expression of aeropittura and umbrian futurist design. Its rounded cylindrical body has numerous parallel horizontal grooves, resembling an industrial piston or aircraft engine, complemented by two solid semicircular fin-like handles arranged asymmetrically.

particularly striking is the mirror-like finish of the handles and raised lines, produced using the complex and costly third-fire platinum metallic-lustre technique.

the attribution to milanese master nino strada is based on stylistic comparisons: strada pioneered the use of platinum metallic lustres on raised lines at c.i.m.a., enhancing the “engine” effect typical of lombard futurism. He also used bold asymmetrical handles to suggest aerodynamic movement.

the strongly mechanical and futurist form contrasts with the painted decoration: two narrow bands of multicoloured flowers inspired by traditional deruta designs.

the vase is described as being in exceptional, untouched condition, with no chips or restoration and a beautifully glossy glazed surface.

valuation information:
the seller states that 1930s umbrian futurist ceramics with platinum, silver, or gold metallic lustres are highly sought after by international collectors. Similar c.i.m.a. Or rometti vases are claimed to sell for approximately €500–€1,200, with larger and more elaborate examples reaching over €3,000.

the seller estimates this vase at €600–€900, citing its rarity, aerodynamic/piston form, intact platinum finish, and historical maker’s mark.

they also reference older auctions from 2007–2008, noting that those prices were starting bids and that auction fees of approximately 25–30% were added.

artist / manufacturer information:
in 1925, biagio biagiotti founded c.i.m.a. (consorzio italiano maioliche artistiche), bringing together ceramic manufacturers including società maioliche deruta and la salamandra. The consortium became an important force in italian ceramic production, exporting to europe and the americas, before closing permanently in 1955.

alongside rometti of umbertide, c.i.m.a. Became an important center for futurist and modernist ceramics in central italy.

the vase is attributed aesthetically to nino strada (milan, 1904–1968), who worked extensively with c.i.m.a. From around 1930. He introduced rigorous, machine-inspired forms influenced by futurism, combining metallic lustres with the contrast between aerodynamic structures and delicate traditional floral decoration. This piece has an attribution mark,
i am sure that it is completely authentic and take full responsibility for any authenticity
issues arising from misattribution See less