Posted 12 years ago
Stillwater
(217 items)
Picked this up today for a couple bucks. I can tell its Italian, probably 1960's-70's, but I don't recognize the work and its unsigned, no luck on Google. Does this look familiar with anyone?
Mystery Italian Studio Pottery Vase | ||
| Pottery10139 of 12310 |  |  |
When I see black on "Italian" pieces of this period I immediately think of "la Serenissima Repubblica di San Marino". Strictly speaking it would not be Italian. Famous for stamps it also has fame for its ceramics.
Names are :
Marmaca : made ceramics from 1940 – 1964
Titano: made ceramics from 1952 – 1981
Arcas: made ceramics from 1954 – 1981/82
SAM: made ceramics from 1955 – 1989
Sacas: made ceramics from 1954 – 1960
Not everything is signed.
Ah ha, I JUST now found the Marmaca pieces on Google. I'd say that's a positive ID if ever there was one. You really know your stuff V, did you ever have an antique shop? Or have you just been studying collectibles your whole life?
Italian stuff has been a favourite for the last forty years. Studied the language and immersed myself in the culture. Just interested in stuff. It all connects in the long run. The other day I finally found out a bit more the connections between Italian and Bohemian glass industries. Looking for connections! Looking to learn!
Check out this summary on RSM wares:
http://italianpotterymarks.freeforums.org/post2319.html
By the way there were some potters who took this style back to Italy too. The black had been traditionally used in San Marino ceramics. These wares are a modern take on techniques that go way back. This area was famous for its wares back in the days of the Holy Roman Empire and even further back I think.
What a nice little read, I have seen black on Italian pottery and I never knew what it was before, I'm always excited to add a book to the library in my head. Like you said, always looking to learn! Thanks V