Pair of Signed Ceramidi Zoomorphic Sculptural Ceramic Vases, France

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Description

A striking pair of sculptural zoomorphic ceramic vases signed “Ceramidi” produced in France in the mid twentieth century.

These highly … Read more A striking pair of sculptural zoomorphic ceramic vases signed “Ceramidi” produced in France in the mid twentieth century.

These highly expressive vessels blur the boundary between functional pottery and sculptural object, embodying the experimental spirit of European studio ceramics during the post-modern period. Their elongated necks and rounded bodies form elegant biomorphic silhouettes, punctuated by a circular opening integrated into the body of each piece. The result evokes stylized animal forms — somewhere between bird, creature, and abstract sculpture.

The dramatic glaze enhances the sculptural quality of the design. A deep glossy brown transitions into a vibrant crimson red, with subtle golden highlights forming naturally along the edges of the glaze flow during firing. This layered coloration emphasizes the fluid contours of the form and creates striking visual depth when viewed from different angles.

Signed “Ceramidi 87” (87 likely being a model number) on the underside, the pair reflects the creative freedom embraced by late-20th-century studio potters, who increasingly explored organic shapes, sculptural silhouettes, and bold glazing techniques beyond traditional vessel forms.

Whether displayed as decorative objects or used as vases, these pieces function beautifully as sculptural accents in modern, eclectic, or post-modern interiors.

They make a particularly strong statement when displayed as a pair on a console, mantel, or shelving arrangement.

About Ceramidi
Ceramidi was a ceramic workshop based in Marseille, France, active during the mid-20th century when southern France experienced a flourishing revival of artistic ceramics.

Although the atelier was located in Marseille, Ceramidi pieces are frequently associated with the Vallauris ceramic tradition, as many works circulated through the Vallauris market and share the region’s distinctive aesthetic. Vallauris became an important center for studio pottery in the 1950s and 1960s, attracting numerous independent workshops experimenting with expressive forms and vibrant glazes.

Ceramidi ceramics are typically characterized by organic silhouettes, free-form shapes, and rich glossy glazes, often combining contrasting colors that emphasize the sculptural qualities of the vessels. The workshop produced decorative pieces such as vases, bowls, and centerpieces intended as both functional objects and artistic décor.

Today, Ceramidi pieces are appreciated as part of the broader tradition of French mid-century studio ceramics, reflecting the creative experimentation that defined the ceramic revival of the post-war period.

Approx. dimensions (each)
Height: 14.37 in (36.5 cm); Width: 6.30 in (16 cm); Depth: 4.53 in (11.5 cm)

Approx. weight
2.65 lb each (1.2 kg); 5.29 lb total (2.4 kg)

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