1935 Bordello Pinheiro Terra Cotta Vase

Description

Founded in 1884 by Raphael Bordallo Pinheiro and designed by his son, this rare and breathtaking vase reflects the naturalism … more Founded in 1884 by Raphael Bordallo Pinheiro and designed by his son, this rare and breathtaking vase reflects the naturalism and ancestral production techniques that have made Bordallo Pinheiro pieces coveted and collected for over 140 years.

With its polychrome decoration boasting two blush pink pieces of fruit and a soft green vine and leaf relief adorning the front, the shape of 5.5" tall terracotta vase was on the vanguard of design with its banded neck opening to an angled 6" wide (diameter) basin that gracefully retreats to a just over 2.5" base.

Upon first obtaining the piece, contact was made directly with Bordallo Pinheiro, still operating in the same factory opened by Raphael in the late 19th century in Caldas da Rainha, Portugal. They reviewed the item, verified its legitimacy and provided additional details regarding the designer (Manuel Gustavo, Raphael's son), the year of design (between 1908-1920) and year of production (1935). According to experts at Bordallo Pinheiro, the piece is so old, they "cannot find out the name" let alone what collection this piece initially belonged to.

Despite a small section of missing vine and several tiny chips on a couple of leaves, the item was taken in for appraisal and inspected by a member of the American Society of Appraisers who provided insight around the price point, taking into account its condition, rarity, age and provenance. less