This is a superb footed bowl most likely by an Australian artist, dating from the late 1960s to early 1970s.

It has some exceptional qualities that indicate it was produced by a professional artist or highly skilled craftsperson. Firstly, the base vessel has been carefully constructed with three delicate feet to elevate and enhance the lovely shape of the bowl. Then there’s the restrained but expressive design, including the confident application of abstract pattern to the copper surface by means of acid etching. Finally, the translucent vitreous enamel with minimal but beautiful colour application shows a judicious and considered understanding of technique, material and colour effect.

The result is a wonderful piece of late 1960s or early 1970s modernist art/craft which strongly reminds us of the work of Leonard French from that period. We will continue our research as we’re confident this one has a story to tell.

In the meantime, it would grace a modernist home of the late 1960s or early 1970s with a further touch of the brilliance of that period - simplicity, earthiness, robust expression and honesty of materials.

DIMENSIONS

Height 5.8 cm

Diameter 24.5 cm

CONDITION

Very good. A few cracks in the enamel glaze here and there, none are obtrusive but one (see final image) is about 1 cm in size. No losses of glaze. A few scratches and scuffs appropriate to age. No glaring damage and all in keeping with an item with a history of display and usage.