Pair of 3-light Candelabra, Marius Giuge, Vallauris, 1960

Large pair of three-light candelabra measuring 37 cm in height, formed of scrolls at the top and base of the shaft, constructed directly as a base in "water foam" decor. The white colour of these models is speckled with black alveoli that contrast with the light glaze. The technique used to achieve this effect involved adding chemical components to the glaze: depending on the chosen dosage, this created variations in the size and depth of the craters. This decor, invented by Marius Giuge, inspired the very popular "Fat Lava" ceramics in Germany in the late 1960s and 1970s. This pair of candlesticks is an iconic example of Marius Giuge's production in the 1960s and 1970s. Each candlestick is signed underneath: stamp MARIUS GIUGE – VALLAURIS on each foot. Marius Giuge, a key figure from Vallauris (1909-1980), navigated the thirty glorious years with classic shapes and glazes that bordered on kitsch. He inherited the know-how from his father, Philippe, who was based in Vallauris, and with whom he learned the craft of pottery. In 1947, he opened his own workshop. He initially worked on traditional productions before converting to decorative ceramics. An excellent artisan potter, his workshops were prosperous. By the end of the 1960s, he developed his famous decor known as "water foam," created by adding chemical components to the glaze to achieve variations in the size and depth of the craters. This decor, applied to large pieces inspired by Greek antiquities, is emblematic of his production. It would later be followed in West Germany by the industrialised manufacturers of the post-war period, who would in turn develop "Fat Lava." In 1975, Marius Giuge passed his workshop on to his daughter, also a ceramicist, thus continuing the story of a family tradition. Facing the consequences of the oil shocks, the workshop would close permanently in 1980.