1950s Italian Hand-Painted Ceramic Double Matchbox Holder, Attributed to Creazioni Luciano

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Description

Charming mid-century Italian hand-painted ceramic double matchbox holder, circa 1950s–1960s, attributed to Creazioni Luciano of Salerno, the workshop founded in … Read more Charming mid-century Italian hand-painted ceramic double matchbox holder, circa 1950s–1960s, attributed to Creazioni Luciano of Salerno, the workshop founded in 1955 by artist and ceramic decorator Lamberto “Luciano” Tastardi.

The diminutive ceramic tile is painted in a wonderfully loose, expressive manner with a tabletop still life of fruit displayed in a pedestal compote, scattered fruit, glassware, a decanter and utensils. Black linear drawing is complemented by translucent washes of apple green, blue, orange, yellow and muted mauve, creating the character of a miniature ceramic painting.

Beneath the ceramic are two original sliding cardboard matchboxes, including one retaining its period “SVEDESI” label, with wooden matches still present.

The underside of the glazed ceramic bears an intriguing hand-painted pictorial device composed of bottles or vessels.

Creazioni Luciano became known for handmade Italian decorative ceramics and later for its distinctive ceramic cloisonné technique. This unusually painterly example differs notably from the more frequently encountered relief-decorated Luciano souvenir pieces.

A delightful small-scale example of postwar Italian decorative design, particularly appealing displayed among Italian ceramics, barware or other mid-century objects.

Dimensions: 3” H × 2” W × 1” D

Creator: Attributed to Creazioni Luciano / Lamberto “Luciano” Tastardi

Place of Origin: Italy

Period: Mid-20th Century

Date of Manufacture: Circa 1955–1965

Materials: Glazed ceramic, cardboard and wood

Condition: Good vintage condition with age-related wear to the original cardboard matchboxes and holder components. Ceramic retains attractive color and glaze. Please see photographs for condition. See less