'Spagnolo' Ceramic Pitcher by Aldo Londi for Bitossi (circa 1960s)

“Spagnolo” ceramic pitcher by Aldo Londi for Bitossi (circa 1960s). A large pitcher from the “Spagnolo” series for Bitossi, one of the most recognisable Italian ceramic designs of the mid-century. The full, rounded body rises to a short neck with a pinched pouring lip and a strong, looping handle. It is glazed in warm mustard yellow over a finely etched surface that gives a lively, woven texture. Around the body run rows of stamped diamond medallions in deep brown, interspersed with small four-petalled flowers in soft green, scrolling motifs and smaller impressed diamonds. The pattern recalls Spanish and Moorish tile work, which gives the series its name, while the hand-stamped decoration means each piece varies slightly. It’s equally striking as a vase for branches and dried flowers or displayed on its own. The ceramic is in good overall condition. There is a small, simple sticker on the underside: "Made in Italy B 109". Stickers such as this one confirm that this was an export piece, typical of Bitossi’s production, much of which was sold abroad. Please enjoy the photos accompanying this listing. Upon request a video will be provided.

Dimensions:

H 26.5 cm / 10.4"

W 25 cm / 35.4"

D 23 cm / 9.1"

About the Artist: Aldo Londi (1911-2003), nicknamed chiodo (nail), did not come from a family of potters, but showed an early aptitude for working with clay. He apprenticed at Fratelli Fanciullacci aged 11. Within a few years he had gained enough skill to work on his own and began to study decorating. His development was interrupted by military service. In 1940 he was captured by the Allies and imprisoned in South Africa. He remained there for five years, during which time he learnt English and set up a small kiln and rudimentary pottery. His brother-in-law, Marcello Bitossi, encouraged him to join the Bitossi factory. His talents became evident almost immediately, and the family appointed him artistic director, a position that he maintained for three decades until his retirement in 1976 (ref: 'Alla Moda - Italian Ceramics of the 1950s-70s', by Mark Hill).