Plaque the argonauts

Rare and elegant enamelled wall plaque from the legendary workshop Les Argonautes (Vallauris), founded in 1953 by Isabelle Ferlay (1917-?) and Frédérique Bourguet (1925-1997), two iconic figures of French ceramics from the 1950s-60s. This piece features a beautiful relief decoration depicting a galleon with majestic sails, rendered in a characteristic palette of the workshop: deep blues, delicate greens, touches of off-white and coppery brown on a textured beige chamotte background. Signed on the back "Les Argonautes" (incised signature typical of Isabelle Ferlay and the workshop). Original integrated hanging hook (period cord still present). Dimensions: 18.8 × 9.2 cm – Thickness: 1.4 to 1.6 cm. Condition: excellent, original – No cracks, no chips, no loss of enamel, colours perfectly preserved. The decorative wall plaques from Les Argonautes are particularly sought after by enthusiasts of Vallauris ceramics and mid-century French design. They stand out for their quality of execution, very personal graphic style, and rarity on the market. A beautiful collectible item, ready to decorate a modern interior or a specialised Vallauris/20th-century ceramics collection.