This Art Deco vase by Roger Guérin is a striking example of his masterful ceramic craftsmanship, blending bold design with dynamic movement. The piece features a tall, elegant form with a lightly textured, cream-colored surface that serves as the perfect backdrop for the dark cobalt blue glazed relief of galloping horses. Their fluid, streamlined silhouettes capture the era’s fascination with motion and stylized nature.
The deep glossy cobalt blue glaze contrasts beautifully with the matte, speckled body, creating depth and visual intrigue. The refined proportions and sculptural quality highlight Guérin’s ability to merge functionality with artistic expression. A hallmark of Bouffioulx stoneware, this vase embodies the essence of Art Deco elegance, making it a timeless and collectible work of ceramic art.
Roger Guérin (1896–1954) was a distinguished Belgian ceramist renowned for his exceptional stoneware creations. Born in the village of Bouffioulx near Charleroi, Guérin was deeply influenced by the rich pottery traditions of his region. In 1918, he established his own workshop, marking the beginning of a prolific career that left an indelible mark on Belgian ceramics.
Guérin’s work is celebrated for its distinctive use of dripping glazes, a technique that added dynamic and organic patterns to his pieces. He often employed high-temperature firings, exceeding 1250 degrees Celsius, to produce durable stoneware, a practice rooted in the local ceramic traditions dating back to the late Middle Ages.
Throughout his career, Guérin collaborated with notable artists, including Cris Achterberg, Marcel Wolfers, Pierre Caille, Damien Ingels, and Chris Lebeau. These collaborations enriched his creative output and contributed to the evolution of ceramic art in Belgium. His participation in international exhibitions, such as the Paris Expos of 1925 and 1937, garnered him widespread acclaim and solidified his reputation as a leading figure in the ceramic arts.
After his passing in 1954, Guérin’s legacy was carried forward by his son, Jules Guérin, who took over the workshop around 1945. Jules continued the family tradition, maintaining the high standards set by his father and further contributing to the prominence of Bouffioulx as a center for ceramic artistry.
Today, Roger Guérin’s works are highly sought after by collectors and art enthusiasts, with his pieces fetching significant prices at auctions. His creations are not only valued for their aesthetic appeal but also for their embodiment of the rich cultural heritage of Belgian ceramics. Bouffioulx remains a testament to the enduring legacy of the Guérin family and their contributions to the world of ceramics.
Specifications
ConditionExcellentColorsMulti ColorMaterialCeramicNumber of items1Height43 cmWidth19 cmDepth19 cm