Relief, Smile - 40 cm - Ceramic, MDF - 1970
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Selected by Alexander Fahl
Art historian with over 10 years' experience and expertise in Italian design.
Estimate € 160 - € 200
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A brutalist abstract ceramic wall sculpture titled Smile, produced in West Germany around 1970, glazed ceramic on a solid wooden backboard with dimensions 40 by 40 by 5 cm and weighing 3.379 kg, unsigned and in excellent vintage condition.
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Description from the seller
Brutalist abstract ceramic wall sculpture – West German studio piece – 1970s
A distinctive and monumental vintage wall sculpture from the 1970s, executed in glazed ceramic on a solid wooden backboard.
This expressive art object is built from a strong abstract-geometric composition of sculptural ceramic elements in a vibrant orange-red glaze. The combination of an oval ring, two circular discs with openings, and a half-round arc forms a balanced three-dimensional relief in which light, shadow, and form continually interact with one another.
The warm, deep, glossy glaze contrasts beautifully with the white-textured backboard, giving the piece a distinctly architectural appearance. The minimalist formal language closely aligns with the Brutalist and abstract-geometric art movements characteristic of West German studio ceramics of the 1970s.
The wall sculpture is made from high-quality glazed ceramic mounted on a sturdy wooden backboard. The ceramic elements are fully three-dimensionally executed and carefully finished with a richly nuanced orange-red glaze, underscoring the craft quality of the piece.
Although no maker’s mark or factory stamp is present, the execution in terms of materials, glaze technique, and form closely matches West German ceramic production from the 1970s. The piece is therefore offered as a likely West German studio work from this period.
Thanks to its generous dimensions, substantial weight, and powerful sculptural presence, this wall relief makes an impressive statement within a Brutalist, Mid-Century Modern, Space Age, or contemporary interior. Also an attractive collectible for enthusiasts of studio ceramics and abstract wall art from the 1970s.
Dimensions
* Height: 40 cm
* Width: 40 cm
* Depth: 5 cm
Weight: 3379 grams
Condition
The wall sculpture is in excellent vintage condition. The ceramic is nicely glossy-well preserved with only minimal signs of use and light patina appropriate to its age. The wooden backboard is also in good condition and is equipped with an integrated hanging device, allowing the piece to be mounted directly on the wall.
The piece will be carefully packaged and shipped with Smart Shipping, registered, insured, and Track & Trace included.
Seller's Story
I have a passion for vintage design, and my objects mainly come from Scandinavia. I seek out unique gems that are then offered to new owners through this platform. I ensure that the objects are very well packaged so they can arrive safely. I hope that, through my circular mission of sustainability, these beautiful objects can be given a second life, serving as a good example for many others.
Translated by Google TranslateBrutalist abstract ceramic wall sculpture – West German studio piece – 1970s
A distinctive and monumental vintage wall sculpture from the 1970s, executed in glazed ceramic on a solid wooden backboard.
This expressive art object is built from a strong abstract-geometric composition of sculptural ceramic elements in a vibrant orange-red glaze. The combination of an oval ring, two circular discs with openings, and a half-round arc forms a balanced three-dimensional relief in which light, shadow, and form continually interact with one another.
The warm, deep, glossy glaze contrasts beautifully with the white-textured backboard, giving the piece a distinctly architectural appearance. The minimalist formal language closely aligns with the Brutalist and abstract-geometric art movements characteristic of West German studio ceramics of the 1970s.
The wall sculpture is made from high-quality glazed ceramic mounted on a sturdy wooden backboard. The ceramic elements are fully three-dimensionally executed and carefully finished with a richly nuanced orange-red glaze, underscoring the craft quality of the piece.
Although no maker’s mark or factory stamp is present, the execution in terms of materials, glaze technique, and form closely matches West German ceramic production from the 1970s. The piece is therefore offered as a likely West German studio work from this period.
Thanks to its generous dimensions, substantial weight, and powerful sculptural presence, this wall relief makes an impressive statement within a Brutalist, Mid-Century Modern, Space Age, or contemporary interior. Also an attractive collectible for enthusiasts of studio ceramics and abstract wall art from the 1970s.
Dimensions
* Height: 40 cm
* Width: 40 cm
* Depth: 5 cm
Weight: 3379 grams
Condition
The wall sculpture is in excellent vintage condition. The ceramic is nicely glossy-well preserved with only minimal signs of use and light patina appropriate to its age. The wooden backboard is also in good condition and is equipped with an integrated hanging device, allowing the piece to be mounted directly on the wall.
The piece will be carefully packaged and shipped with Smart Shipping, registered, insured, and Track & Trace included.
Seller's Story
I have a passion for vintage design, and my objects mainly come from Scandinavia. I seek out unique gems that are then offered to new owners through this platform. I ensure that the objects are very well packaged so they can arrive safely. I hope that, through my circular mission of sustainability, these beautiful objects can be given a second life, serving as a good example for many others.
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
Era
1900-2000
Country of origin
Germany
Style
Vintage
Material
MDF, Ceramic
Title of artwork
Smile
Signature
Not signed
Year
1970
Condition
Excellent condition
Height
40 cm
Width
40 cm
Depth
5 cm
Weight
3379 g
