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Ambrogio Pozzi Postmodern Vase Arte Ceramica Romana 1987 Memphis Era Museal
€999€900-10%Bid from €700
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Private sellerBerlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 25 sales
Product description
Ambrogio Pozzi "Enigma" Postmodern Geometric Porcelain Vase – Arte Ceramica Romana (A.C.R.), Italy, 1987
An exceptional postmodern ceramic vase designed by Ambrogio Pozzi and produced by Arte Ceramica Romana (A.C.R.) in Pomezia, near Rome, in 1987. Known as "Enigma," this striking work exemplifies the graphic boldness, architectural abstraction, and visual experimentation that defined Italian design during the late 1980s.
A documented example of the same model is held in the collection of the Museo Internazionale delle Ceramiche (MIC) in Faenza (inventory no. 29483), confirming the design's authorship, date, and production.
Part sculpture, part vessel, Enigma transcends conventional ceramic design. It stands as a compelling expression of the dialogue between architecture, geometry, and decorative art that characterised the postmodern era.
Design & Architectural Language
The vase is conceived as a geometric construction composed of intersecting volumes and graphic planes.
Its silhouette combines a rectangular opening with an inverted trapezoidal body, a stepped zig-zag profile on one side, and a sharply articulated triangular base. The composition is animated by contrasting geometric elements: a black triangular form rising from below and a vivid red inverted triangle embedded within a field of irregular black dots.
The result recalls architectural elevations, graphic design, and Memphis-era visual culture. Strong contrasts of colour and shape create an object that changes character depending on the viewing angle, functioning as both sculpture and vessel.
Material & Technique
Manufacturer: Arte Ceramica Romana (A.C.R.), Pomezia, Italy
Designer: Ambrogio Pozzi (1931–2012)
Date: 1987
Material: Glazed ceramic / high-fired earthenware
Decoration: Black geometric fields, dotted pattern, and red triangular insert
Finish: Glossy
Origin: Italy
The precision of the surfaces, sharp modelling, and clean graphic decoration demonstrate the sophisticated production standards for which A.C.R. became known during the late twentieth century.
Dimensions
Height: 26 cm
Width: 29 cm
Depth: 10 cm
About the Designer
Ambrogio Pozzi was among the most influential figures in postwar Italian ceramic design. Throughout his career he collaborated with numerous Italian manufacturers, creating objects that balanced sculptural invention with industrial production.
His work from the 1980s reflects a growing interest in architectural form, visual perception, and geometric abstraction. Enigma belongs to this mature phase, where decorative ceramics became vehicles for spatial and conceptual exploration.
Condition
Very good vintage condition.
One upper corner has been professionally restored and presents well in display. Minor traces of age and handling are consistent with careful use. The vase remains structurally sound and visually impressive, with the restoration having minimal impact on its overall presentation.
Why This Piece Matters
• Designed by Ambrogio Pozzi, one of Italy's most important ceramic designers
• Produced by Arte Ceramica Romana in 1987
• Documented model represented in the MIC Faenza collection
• Strong architectural and Memphis-era visual language
• A sculptural object equally compelling as decorative art and design collectible
• Increasingly sought after by collectors of Italian postmodern design
A distinctive and museum-documented example of late twentieth-century Italian ceramic design, combining graphic intensity, architectural thinking, and sculptural presence in a single object.
General Information
Please explore our profile for more vintage vases!
International buyers: import duties or taxes, if applicable, are the buyer's responsibility.
All items are photographed and described with care. Vintage pieces may show minimal traces of age; any significant flaws will be clearly mentioned.
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsRed, Multi Color, Creme, BlackMaterialCeramicNumber of items1Height26 cmWidth29 cmDepth10 cm
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Seller information
About this seller
Private sellerBerlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 25 sales