Mid-Century Italian Decorative Vase by Guido Gambone (circa 1950s)

Mid-century Italian decorative ceramic vase by Guido Gambone, circa 1950s. The classically proportioned cylindrical form is enlivened by a striking decorative scheme. A richly tactile glaze envelops the entire surface, creating a visually compelling and highly engaging finish. Asymmetrical bands of deep chocolate brown and soft sage green draw the eye and lend the piece a strong sense of movement and balance.

Overall, the vase is both elegant and expressive, highly collectible, and evocative of Gambone’s most desirable period. It would sit comfortably in a museum or serious private collection. The piece is in good overall condition. Please enjoy the detailed photographs accompanying this listing. A video will be provided upon request. Signed on the underside: “Gambone Italy” with the donkey motif maker’s mark.

Dimensions:

H 18.5 cm / 7.3"

Dia 6.8 cm / 2.7"

About the Artist: Guido Gambone (1909–1969) is one of the most prominent Italian ceramicists of the 20^th century. Gambone defined a unique style in which he fused traditional ceramic methods with amorphous forms that echoed equally the art of the past and of his modern day. His dynamic objects, in which he often experimented with glazes and patterns, garnered great popularity and today are treasured holdings in private and public collections such as those at the Brooklyn Museum in New York.

Born in Montella in the southern Italian region of Campania, Gambone received his earliest training in the art of ceramics at the Manifattura Artistica Ceramica Salernitana in nearby Vietri sul Mare. He continued his studies at the Industria Ceramica Salernitana (I.C.S.) and eventually took over as director of the facility in 1935. The following year, he moved northward to Florence with fellow ceramicists Vincenzo Procida and Francesco Solimene to assist in the production of the Cantagalli ceramics company, which derived its name from founder Ulisse Cantagalli (1839–1901) and specialised in reviving the rich colours and patterns of the Maiolica tradition.

1950 marked the showcase of one of Gambone’s collaborative works at a group exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum in New York, and the following year he enjoyed his first solo showing at the Galleria Il Milione in Milan. By the end of the decade, Gambone had achieved international acclaim for his pieces but died two years later at the age of 60.