Desk

Large table cigarette lighter, Bitossi Ceramiche, Italy circa 1960’s

September 14, 2014Ceramics, Collectables1960's, Aldo Londi, Bitossi, brighton, ceramiche, ceramics, cigarette lighter, coffee table, decor, Desk, etsy, italian pottery, large, made in Italy, mcm, mid century, modern, paisley, pottery, retro, rimini, Rosenthal Netter, spagnolo, table lighter, vintageafterglowretro Leave a comment

This is a beautiful and large table cigarette / cigar lighter by Bitossi Ceramiche, Italy circa 1960’s.

A fabulous piece designed by Aldo Londi, a striking style very different to the iconic ‘Rimini Blu’. This ‘Liberty’ decor was influenced by paisley patterns on imported Persian and Indian textiles.
This is in an unusual colourway similar to that used on the ‘Spagnolo’ decor, in yellow, orange, brown and green tones, representing the Spanish terrain.

The pattern is impressed into the surface, and the whole piece has the characteristic pitted texture from the inclusion of rough granules in the clay. Lovely form with the tapered waisted base and bulbous neck, with the brass lighter sitting in a well on the top.

A wonderful piece from one of the greatest designers and ceramicists of the 20th century that
would make a fantastic practical table lighter or display item, and would look great in any 60’s, retro, vintage, mid century modern, modernist, minimal or contemporary interior. A Great addition to any collection of Bitossi / Italian / European art pottery or 20th century design.

In excellent working condition, the mechanism still has a wick and the flint sparks, will need filling with lighter fluid. The pottery is excellent, free from chips or cracks, some light crazing commensurate with age, nothing to detract on display.

Measures 18 x 7 x 7cm / 7 x 2.75 x 2.75in.

Still bears the original makers and distributors labels on the base, ‘Made in Italy 69 / 10’ and ‘Created in Italy for Rosenthal Netter’.

Available for sale in my Etsy shop http://etsy.me/Xgvt3G

Lucite Paperweight with Thermometer and Underwater Seascene, made in France circa 1950’s

March 31, 2013Collectables50's, aquarium, atomic era, Desk, france, home decor, kitsch, lucite, mid century, modernist, Paperweight, resin, retro, seascene, space age, table, thermometer, underwater, vintageafterglowretro Leave a comment

This is a truly Stunning clear Lucite (resin) paperweight with thermometer, circa 1950’s / 1960/s. In the Mid Century Modern style, believed to be made in France (thermometre on face).

A Great piece, in the shape of a clamshell, and displaying an underwater Sea scene complete with shells, sea plants and a Starfish. All encased in a beautiful clear resin that catches the light amazingly through the contoured edges, contrasted nicely with the black back.

A Striking and unusual item, catches the light beautifully, perfect for use as a desk accessory / paperweight, or on display on a sideboard, windowsill or mantelpiece.

Really reminiscent of the 50’s / 60’s Atomic Mid-Century Modern Era using new materials with exciting new forms! Would be fantastic in a retro, vintage, or even contemporary or minimal interior due to its bold striking form and design!

In Excellent Condition, no marks, chips or scratches, the thermometer is still working too!

Measures 13 x 11 x 4.5cm / 5 x 4.5 x 1.75in.

AVeM Murano Glass Tutti Frutti Toothpick Holder / Bowl / Vase, Italy circa 1950’s

January 16, 2013Glass1950's, art, avem, aventurine, Bowl, decoration for home, Desk, filigree, Glass, italy, mid century, millefiori, Murano, murano venetian glass, red, retro, retro style, silver, tutti frutti, Vase, venice, vintageafterglowretro Leave a comment

This is a Beautiful AVeM Murano (Arte Vetraria Muranese) red glass ‘Tutti Frutti’ small vase / bowl / toothpick holder, Venice, Italy circa 1950’s.

A Stunning piece that displays the master craftsmanship and artistry of Murano’s glassblowers.
The exquisite myriad of glasswork includes silver leaf, Zanfirico lattice filigree, twisted ribbon canes, and copper Aventurine. All set in a random form in clear glass, the inner being a rich red glass, which creates a lovely stunning background to the intricate craftsmanship.

Catches the light beautifully through the myriad techniques and colours, the undulating amorphous form looks different from every angle, beautifully curved and organic.

Would make a Fantastic addition to any collection of Murano, European Art glass, and would complement any retro, vintage, mid century, Hollywood regency, fifties, sixties, minimal or contemporary interior.

In Excellent Condition, no chips, a couple of very small surface marks not noticeable on display, the usual age related wear to the base, nothing to detract.

Measures 9 x 9 x 8cm / 3.5 x 3.5 x 3in.