Antonio De Mori, Phytomorphic Ceramic for La Lucciola, 1950s, Ceramic and Paint

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An exceptionally rare phytomorphic ceramic sculpture attributed to Antonio De Mori and produced by Ceramiche La Lucciola in Vicenza, Italy, … Read more An exceptionally rare phytomorphic ceramic sculpture attributed to Antonio De Mori and produced by Ceramiche La Lucciola in Vicenza, Italy, during the 1950s. Standing on four small tapered feet, the piece develops vertically through an extraordinary composition of organic, architectural and anthropomorphic forms. Its asymmetrical body resembles an abstract plant, a stylized vessel or an imaginary figure, culminating in a pierced leaf-shaped finial. Two subtly modelled human figures emerge from the surface, one on each side. Rather than being immediately revealed, their elongated bodies and facial profiles appear gradually through the relief decoration and the movement of the glaze. Additional incised and raised elements resemble leaves, branches and abstract anatomical forms, reinforcing the fascinating ambiguity between the vegetal and the human. The lateral pierced elements are deliberately different from one another: one forms an elongated handle, while the opposite side terminates in a smaller circular opening. Together with the hollow upper section and the sculptural finial, these details create an unusually dynamic silhouette that changes considerably according to the viewing angle. The surface is covered in a nuanced green glaze, ranging from deep forest green to softer sage and silvery tones. Its mottled, subtly textured finish settles differently across the raised and recessed areas, emphasizing the modelling and lending the sculpture an almost archaeological presence. The experimental organic language recalls the work of Antonia Campi, particularly her investigation of free-form ceramics inspired by the natural world and the human body. This sculpture should not, however, be considered a work by Campi; it is presented as a distinctive creation by Antonio De Mori for La Lucciola, reflecting the broader artistic experimentation taking place in Italian ceramics during the 1950s. The original period manufacturer’s label is remarkably preserved underneath and reads “Ceramiche La Lucciola, Vicenza – Italy,” together with the handwritten article number and a price of 602,000 Italian lire. If the amount is interpreted as a contemporaneous 1950 value, it would correspond to approximately €13,700 in 2025 purchasing power according to historical Italian inflation coefficients. While this comparison can only be considered indicative, it illustrates the exceptional commercial positioning of the piece. Documented comparable anthropomorphic ceramics produced by La Lucciola around 1950 have been attributed to Antonio De Mori, founder and leading artistic figure of the Vicenza manufacture. The sculpture remains in excellent vintage condition, with no significant chips, cracks or restorations observed. Very minor surface variations, small firing irregularities and gentle traces of age are consistent with its handcrafted production and historical character. Please refer to the detailed photographs. A highly unusual and collectible example of postwar Italian ceramic art, notable for its sculptural complexity, expressive modelling, original label and exceptional state of preservation. Dimensions Height: 36 cm / 14.17 in Width: 18 cm / 7.09 in Depth: 10 cm / 3.94 in See less