Circa 1950 Brad Keeler California Pottery Lobsterware Lettuce Leaf Dish

Details

Description

This wonderfully sculptural circa 1950 Lobsterware dish by California ceramicist Brad Keeler pairs a beautifully molded lettuce leaf with a … Read more This wonderfully sculptural circa 1950 Lobsterware dish by California ceramicist Brad Keeler pairs a beautifully molded lettuce leaf with a brilliant red lobster claw perched along the rim.

The large leaf is rendered in a gorgeous soft green glaze that lightens from the edges to the center. Beautifully modeled veins, rippling edges and the fine overall crazing are characteristic of Keeler’s vintage glazed pottery. The glossy red lobster claw provides the perfect bit of whimsy—and a fabulous jolt of color.

Brad Keeler Artwares produced distinctive figural ceramics in Los Angeles during the mid-20th century, and his wonderfully imaginative Lobsterware has become especially collectible. This particular form is model No. 891; an example of the same model is held in the collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, where it is dated circa 1949.

At approximately nine inches across, it’s a terrific size for serving appetizers, nuts or cocktail-hour treats, but is every bit as appealing displayed on a bar, coffee table or shelf. A fabulous little piece of California pottery—sophisticated enough to be considered and playful enough to make you smile.

The underside is stamped “BRAD KEELER / Made in U.S.A.” and numbered 891. See less