Vintage Ceramic Pitcher by Alexandre Kostanda (circa 1960s)

A charming small vintage ceramic pitcher by Alexandre Kostanda, Vallauris, France (circa 1960s). Hand-decorated with a stylised bird in soft cream and ochre tones against a mottled grey-brown ground, in Kostanda's trademark natural clay and rustic style. Kostanda created beautifully original vessels, such as vases, pitchers and pots, which were both utilitarian and stunning works of art. Tactile and visually alluring, these pieces are collected internationally by devotees of Kostanda, one of the founders of the Accolay workshops. In good overall condition. Incised signature 'A. Kostanda' to the underside, with an impressed 'Vallauris' stamp and a further impressed 'Terre de Cluny' mark.

Dimensions:

H 15.7 cm / 6.2"

W 14 cm / 5.5"

D 11 cm / 4.3"

About the Artist: Alexandre Kostanda (1924–2007) was an apprentice to Louis Giraud in Vallauris, France, on the French Riviera. Kostanda later became head of the studio from 1949 to 1953, where his mother, Irène, had also worked for Giraud as a decorator. In 1953, Kostanda founded his own studio. He brought Cluny sandstone clay with him, which supported higher firing temperatures, mixing it with the soil from Vallauris.

When others migrated towards bright, shimmering colours, Kostanda preferred to create with colours that retained the natural elements of the clay. His ceramics' rustic appearance surprises with its finesse and balance, revealing the exceptional technical mastery of his art.