
Description
Italian Creamware (In white) Rope-Twist Oval Centerpiece Basket, Mid-20th Century
A finely hand-crafted Italian oval centerpiece basket in white creamware, dating to the mid-20th century or earlier. Measuring 15"³ wide x 7.25"³ deep x 6"³ high (interior depth approximately 5"³), this sculptural piece showcases the remarkable skill of Italian ceramicists who specialized in the centuries-old tradition of openwork and reticulated pottery.
The basket is formed from individually modeled strands of clay, twisted to mimic ropes or cords and interwoven in a lattice pattern. Each intersection is finished with applied roundels, securing the structure in place with decorative as well as functional intent. The interior is solid and glazed, providing stability, while the walls remain airy and delicate, emphasizing light and shadow. Despite its fragile appearance, the rope-twist construction imparts durability.
The all-white glaze"”sometimes described as blanc creamware"”highlights the texture of the modeling, allowing the form to serve as both decorative sculpture and functional vessel. Rope and knot motifs in decorative arts traditionally symbolize unity, continuity, and maritime heritage, and in this example, they also evoke the classical woven baskets of Italy's agrarian past.
Originally intended as a fruit or bread centerpiece, this piece today serves equally well for floral arrangements (with a liner) or simply as a decorative object for table, console, or sideboard display.
Marked Made in Italy and numbered R 423 on the underside, this basket aligns with the postwar Italian export ceramics market of the 1950s–1970s, when artisanal pottery blended classical inspiration with modern refinement.
Comparable woven creamware examples by Italian workshops such as Bassano or Deruta are sought after by collectors; large oval forms such as this are scarce.
Condition:
Alterations: Unknown
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good
Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses.
Dimensions:
Height: 6 in.
Width: 15 in.
Depth: 7.25 in.
Category: Baskets
Origin: Italy
Materials: Pottery
Shipping:Domestic: Flat-rate of $27.00 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 West Palm Beach, FL
Your purchase is protected:
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.
A finely hand-crafted Italian oval centerpiece basket in white creamware, dating to the mid-20th century or earlier. Measuring 15"³ wide x 7.25"³ deep x 6"³ high (interior depth approximately 5"³), this sculptural piece showcases the remarkable skill of Italian ceramicists who specialized in the centuries-old tradition of openwork and reticulated pottery.
The basket is formed from individually modeled strands of clay, twisted to mimic ropes or cords and interwoven in a lattice pattern. Each intersection is finished with applied roundels, securing the structure in place with decorative as well as functional intent. The interior is solid and glazed, providing stability, while the walls remain airy and delicate, emphasizing light and shadow. Despite its fragile appearance, the rope-twist construction imparts durability.
The all-white glaze"”sometimes described as blanc creamware"”highlights the texture of the modeling, allowing the form to serve as both decorative sculpture and functional vessel. Rope and knot motifs in decorative arts traditionally symbolize unity, continuity, and maritime heritage, and in this example, they also evoke the classical woven baskets of Italy's agrarian past.
Originally intended as a fruit or bread centerpiece, this piece today serves equally well for floral arrangements (with a liner) or simply as a decorative object for table, console, or sideboard display.
Marked Made in Italy and numbered R 423 on the underside, this basket aligns with the postwar Italian export ceramics market of the 1950s–1970s, when artisanal pottery blended classical inspiration with modern refinement.
Comparable woven creamware examples by Italian workshops such as Bassano or Deruta are sought after by collectors; large oval forms such as this are scarce.
Condition:
Alterations: Unknown
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good
Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses.
Dimensions:
Height: 6 in.
Width: 15 in.
Depth: 7.25 in.
Category: Baskets
Origin: Italy
Materials: Pottery
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
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.
Condition
Unknown; Some Imperfections; Good
Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses.
Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses.
Buyer's Premium
20%
Italian Creamware, in White Rope-Twist Oval Centerpiece Basket, Mid-20th Century
Estimate $410-$1,220
Starting Price
$300
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Heritage & Home: Antiques & Design Classics 2
May 15, 2026 7:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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