A rare and characterful find, this 1950s ceramic bird-form vase by iconic Palm Beach artisan Dodie Thayer is a playful departure from her famed lettuce ware. Hand-sculpted and signed by Thayer, this sculptural piece features a whimsically abstract bird rendered in painterly turquoise glaze with highlights of the creamy bisque body visible from a wax resist technique. The exaggerated beak, crown-like comb, and rotund form rest on tripod feet, merging function with folk art flair.

Thayer, beloved by design legends like C.Z. Guest and Jackie O, was best known for her garden-inspired pottery. This early or experimental piece highlights her creativity beyond tableware "” a conversation-starting collectible for fans of American studio ceramics and mid-century artisan craft.

Details:

Maker: Dodie Thayer (signed)

Era: 1950s

Material: Glazed ceramic

Color: Blue-green with natural clay and white marbling

Condition: Visible studio wear and glaze irregularities consistent with hand-thrown work




Style & Influence:

Mid-Century Studio Pottery

American Folk Revival

In the spirit of Bjørn Wiinblad and early Picasso ceramics

Perfect for Palm Beach Regency, eclectic, or rustic-chic interiors


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Excellent

Dimensions:
Height: 5.5 in.
Width: 7 in.
Depth: 4 in.

Category: Vases
Origin: United States
Materials: Ceramic
Creator: Styled After: Alexander Calder

Shipping:

Domestic: Flat-rate of $58.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S.

International: No International Shipping for this auction.

Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.

Location: This item ships from Jacksonville, FL, FL

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In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Excellent