Ceramano Ewer 1960s W. German

The best West German pottery seems to exude a surprising sophistication. Such is the case with this ewer. It is expertly formed, note for example, the excellent shape of the opening and the confident cut of the handle. A dry pummice like glaze covers most of it's skin, known as "volcano" glaze. Pictorial elements include two opposing panels rendered cheerfully, as updated hieroglyphics. One panel depicts a seated figure, the other a snake floats over a bowl/basket. As you can see, both figures are rendered in "volcano" glaze against smooth mat glazes colored brown-berry and turqouise, respectively.

The ewer measures 6.25 inches high x 4 inches wide, approximately. The base is signed with a sharp point and is typical of Ceramano signatures. Frankly we find it difficult to decipher the inscription. Having researched the similar Toscana line (by Ceramano), we feel sure this piece is stylistically related.

Ceramano (1954-1989)was the creme-de-la-creme of West German potteries. According to Mark Hill, author of the very useful catalog, Fat Lava: West German Ceramics of the 1960s & 70s, Ceramano was established as the production-oriented firm, Jasba's (1926-present), art ceramic arm.