Ceramic Carafe Jug Gerbino Vallauris

Elegant small ceramic carafe jug by Jean Gerbino, a Sicilian master ceramist who became a naturalized French citizen in 1928. His work is part of the Poterie de Vallauris appellation, which includes the ceramic production of workshops and factories established in the region from the end of the 19th century. Initially a simple turner in a Vallauris factory, Jean Gerbino established himself as the creator of a new art. His very original process combines different mosaic and neriage techniques (mixture of colored earths). The clays (earthenware) are colored in the mass by oxides. The liquid paste is then stored in washing machines where it hardens. When it is compact, the ceramist takes it to his workshop in small packets, which resemble bread dough. These clays are assembled flat to form designs. The plates thus produced are shaped in molds. After drying, the piece is fired a first time, covered with a colorless enamel and then fired a second time. In 1930, Jean Gerbino set up as a craftsman to exploit his idea and won the Grand Prix de Paris in 1931 (29th Concours Lépine). He was regularly rewarded at the many exhibitions in which he participated until his death in 1966. The secret of making these earth mosaics has been passed down from generation to generation and the company has continued to this day. With their slightly Afro-Moorish air, Jean Gerbino's ceramics bear the mark of the colonial exoticism of the 1930s that saw their birth. With strong decorative qualities, they remain in fashion today. This superb quality object is in excellent condition, can be used or displayed as a decoration.