Stoneware vase, Jean Payen, Vallauris, vintage, 1960s

This soliflore vase, or bottle, made of raw stoneware, is a significant piece in the work of French ceramist Jean Payen (1928-2012), an emblematic figure of the Vallauris workshop, renowned for its revival of pottery in the mid-20th century. The vase has an elegant and refined silhouette, characteristic of the vintage period of the 1950s and 60s, when Jean Payen developed an aesthetic leaning towards simplicity and minimalism, while still maintaining utilitarian forms. The stoneware is left unglazed on the exterior, offering a textured and mineral appearance, typical of his choice of materials that prioritized the authenticity of the earth. The opening is slightly beveled or irregular, adding to its handcrafted charm. The rim of the piece bears the stamped signature "PAYEN" as well as the inscription "30 rue de la Folie Méricourt, " which corresponds to the address of his workshop, and the number "12, " likely a reference to the model or series. These marks confirm the authenticity of the ceramic and its Vallauris origin. The price of this stoneware vase takes into account the chip on its rim. Raw stoneware is sought after for its authenticity, characteristic of Vallauris pieces from the 1950s and 60s, and is a valuable addition to any collection. A little background: Jean Payen (1928-2012): A Figure of the Vallauris Revival. Jean Payen was born in 1928 into a family of merchants and industrialists from Lyon. Jean Payen developed an early interest in the visual arts. He completed internships, notably in Vallauris. He set up his workshop in 1953 on Rue Mouffetard, in an attic apartment with no modern amenities. Jean Payen was a major French ceramicist and potter of the 20th century, whose work is intrinsically linked to the revival of pottery in Vallauris during the 1950s. After studying at the Fine Arts schools of Lyon and Marseille, he completed internships, notably in Vallauris. He set up his workshop in 1953 on Rue Mouffetard, in an attic apartment with no modern amenities.