"Good Beast" maiolica sculpture – Vasilkovsky Plant, Ukraine Designed by Valery and Nadezhda Protoriev An audacious and charming figure from the celebrated "Good Beasts" series, one of the most iconic collections of 20th-century Ukrainian and Soviet ceramics. Measuring 18 cm x 21 cm, this fabulous creature stands out for its vibrant honey-colored glaze and its expressive, organic forms—hallmarks of the artistic duo Valery and Nadezhda Protoriev. Historical and Artistic Context: This piece originates from the prestigious Vasilkovsky Maiolica Plant. What began in 1928 as a small artisans' cooperative called "Keramik" evolved into the leading authority on Ukrainian ceramics. Its products gained worldwide fame, being repeatedly showcased in international decorative arts exhibitions. Valery and Nadezhda Protoriev, both graduates of the Kyiv School of Decorative Arts in the 1950s, were the creative soul of the factory. Their work is highly sought after by collectors today for its unique ability to fuse ancestral folklore with Mid-Century Modern design. Symbolism and Modern Relevance: The value of the Protorievs' work has transcended pure aesthetics to become a symbol of resilience. In 2022, following the destruction of a residential building in Borodyanka, a rooster figurine from this same series remained miraculously intact on a kitchen cabinet amidst the ruins, becoming a global icon of endurance. In recent years, the legacy of the Good Beasts series has been further elevated by curator and collector Pavel Gudimov through the "Zavod" exhibition. This has consolidated international interest and led to a steady increase in the market value of these pieces. Technical Specifications: • Dimensions: 18 cm (Height) x 21 cm (Length). • Technique: Glazed and modeled maiolica. • Condition: [Insert condition, e.g., Excellent / Very Good]. Shipping and Security: To ensure the maximum protection of this historic piece, shipping will be fully insured for the total auction value. Delivery will be made exclusively to an authorized pick-up point, where the recipient will be required to provide official identification (ID/Passport) to claim the package. This protocol ensures that the artwork reaches the correct hands safely and securely.