Here's a little more sun—in this case, sun flowers.
I must admit, this vase is a bit of a mystery to me. In my thirty years in the antiques trade, I have only seen two of them (both of which I acquired). I do not know who made it, in what country, or when. The piece exhibits a European sensibility—which may help explain why I have seen it so rarely in America. On the other hand, I bought both of my pieces in the States, an inconclusive suggestion that it might have been made here. My educated guess is that it was made in Europe in the 1910's or 1920's—or in the United States in the 1920's or 1930's.
I bought my first one over 20 years ago. Its background is finished in a rich, dark chocolate matte glaze. I decided to keep that one for myself as it sits so beautifully with my personal collection of Roseville chocolate brown ceramics (all made from 1924 - 1926). The piece above, the second to be acquired, sits nicely with a much smaller collection of oxblood pieces. Nevertheless, I have decided to offer it for sale (as I cannot keep everything!).
What I do know is that I really like the piece! Some collectors buy with their brains; some collectors buy with their eyes. I am firmly in the second category (though I try to listen to my brain, too, which usually takes a back seat to my eyes and heart). If you'd like to learn a little more about this piece, please click on the photo above.
Though our Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed, LEO Design is still alive and well! Please visit our on-line store where we continue to sell Handsome Gifts (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
We also can be found in Pittsburgh's historic "Strip District" at Mahla & Co. Antiques (www.mahlaantiques.com) or in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania at The Antique Center of Strabane (www.antiquecenterofstrabane.com).
Or call to arrange to visit our Pittsburgh showroom (by private appointment only). 917-446-4248