This captivating oval ceramic centerpiece in blue features a harmonious and well-balanced shape. However, what truly stands out is the exceptional combination of various shades of blue, creating a visually striking and dynamic effect. Crafted between 1970 and 1975 in one of the last remaining workshops in Vallauris, this piece bears the painted signature “Vallauris” and an impressed mark on the bottom edge, which also includes the name of the artist, Raymond Fassy. Vallauris, a town in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of southern France, is renowned for its long-standing tradition of ceramic craftsmanship. Although ceramic production in Vallauris dates back centuries, the town experienced a true artistic revival in the 20th century, attracting numerous artists and artisans. In the 1930s, Vallauris ceramics, originally designed for utilitarian purposes, underwent an aesthetic transformation, gradually evolving into genuine works of art. A pivotal moment for the town came in 1948 with the arrival of Pablo Picasso. Captivated by ceramics, Picasso relocated to Vallauris, where he remained until 1955, dedicating himself intensively to the craft and creating iconic works such as War and Peace. His presence, along with that of artists like Chagall and Miró, helped establish Vallauris as a prominent artistic hub. Among the local artisans, Raymond Fassy holds a distinguished place. Born on December 6, 1950, in Monaco, he spent his childhood in Antibes before permanently settling in Vallauris in 1968. In 1971, he met Maryse Parodi, with whom he shared a passion for ceramics. Fassy opened his workshop in the lower part of Avenue Clemenceau, where he created ceramics inspired by the style that made Vallauris famous in the 1950s and 1960s. His works, known for their original shapes and vibrant glazes, include decorative items such as shoe-shaped ashtrays and artistic trays. Unfortunately, like many other ceramists of his time, Fassy ceased his activity in March 2012. He passed away on December 10, 2019, leaving behind a significant legacy in the world of Vallauris ceramics. All pieces produced in the workshops of Vallauris are entirely handmade by skilled ceramists driven by deep passion. However, this ancient craft has significantly declined in recent decades: of the more than 250 ceramic workshops once active in the town, only a few remain today, preserving a tradition at risk of fading away. Despite this, Vallauris continues to celebrate its rich ceramic heritage through museums and ateliers. The Musée de la Céramique, for instance, offers visitors an overview of the evolution of local ceramics over the centuries, while the Madoura workshop, founded by Suzanne and Georges Ramié, houses a collection of works by Picasso and other contemporary artists. The town remains a key destination for ceramic enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of history, art, and craftsmanship. The centerpiece is in good condition. Dimensions: Length: 12.2 in (31 cm) Width: 10.6 in (27 cm) Height: 1.6 in (4 cm)
.png)
SILVER Seller in Prato, Italy
