Modern ceramic bowl by Alexandre Kostanda, 1960s

A rare and fantastic studio ceramic bowl by Alexandre Kostanda (1917-2007). He was one of the leading French modernist ceramists of the mid-20th century, known for his modernist and earthy style. His designs were always simple yet highly inspiring. As a prominent artist, he influenced many potters and ran his own workshop. This small bowl features many characteristic details of his works, including unglazed dark clay, abstract decoration, and a distinctive palette of ochre, dark brown, and white details. The bowl is a blend of rustic and modernism, showcasing fantastic craftsmanship; it is incredibly delicate with remarkable glazing. Vallauris is a pottery region in the southeast of France, near Cannes. Pottery has been made there since antiquity. However, the area developed as a centre for art pottery in the late 19th century, and many businesses have thrived there since. The Vallauris group became very famous thanks to Pablo Picasso, and they experimented to produce artistic pieces for everyday use, which is often considered a major innovation in mid-century modern art ceramics. This bowl measures 13 cm in diameter and 4 cm in height, signed at the base: Kostanda, Vallauris. It is in excellent condition.