84 - Ugo Lucerni (1900–1989)

Ugo Lucerni (1900–1989) Bottle Blue-glazed, polychrome ceramic Signed Date of creation: 1950 H60 D18 cm An Italian ceramic artist active during the second half of the 20th century, Ugo Lucerni developed a distinctive body of work characterized by the expressiveness of the material and the emphasis placed on surface effects. His creations are distinguished by the use of glazes in deep hues and a decorative vocabulary inspired by both Mediterranean traditions and postwar artistic experiments. This vase features a slender silhouette with a long neck resting on a bulging body, enlivened by geometric motifs in relief that give rhythm to the ceramic’s surface. The turquoise glaze with its vibrant hues emphasizes the form’s contours and highlights the richness of the decoration. Through the combination of a powerful architectural structure and a free-flowing treatment of the material, this work perfectly illustrates Lucerni’s exploration of the dialogue between sculpture and ceramics. The decorative reliefs, integrated into the very structure of the object, play a full part in its sculptural dimension. The ceramics from this period reflect the growing interest in postwar Italy in a form of production where the utilitarian object becomes a true medium for artistic experimentation.