1964 Italian Ceramic Cardinal Bookend Sculpture Montelupo Red Clergy with Books

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Description

Expressive mid-century Italian ceramic bookend depicting a cardinal or clergyman holding stacked books, rendered in a vivid red glaze with … Read more Expressive mid-century Italian ceramic bookend depicting a cardinal or clergyman holding stacked books, rendered in a vivid red glaze with black and cream accents. The figure has a distinctly sculptural presence, with elongated features and hand-worked detailing characteristic of Tuscan workshop production.
The underside retains both an incised mark and a handwritten notation on an original interior label that appears to read “64,” indicating 1964 production. The marking style corresponds with another example from the same workshop, supporting a mid-century Italian origin.
This piece is substantial enough to function as a bookend, yet equally compelling as a standalone decorative sculpture. The form and palette align with ceramics produced in the Montelupo Fiorentino region, known for expressive figural work during the period.
Comparable examples have been offered at significantly higher retail levels, reflecting growing interest in these sculptural mid-century Italian forms.
A companion figure in a related style is also available separately.

Height 9 inches
Width approximately 6 inches

Condition consistent with age, including minor surface wear and small glaze losses. No significant damage. See less