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Jean Marais (1913-1998)
France, 1970-1980
Anthropomorphic vase-sculpture in black glazed ceramic, signed
This enigmatic, sculptural artist's vase is the work of Jean Marais, a towering figure of the 20th century, actor, writer, director... and inspired ceramist.
In this free and powerful creation, the artist offers us a stylized face with sacred, almost solar symmetry, where the spiral eyes, architectural nose and totemic mouth create a timeless figure. The vase becomes a mask, both protective and magnetic, evoking ancient art as much as tribal or Cycladic forms. The two side handles become ears, attributes of a silent god.
Made in satin-glazed black stoneware, the piece bears Jean Marais' signature, hand-engraved on the base. It rests on a black granite base that reinforces its sculptural presence.
A rare object, charged with aura and elegance, this work bears witness to Jean Marais' spiritual and aesthetic quest during his years of retirement, when earth, form and light became his preferred languages.
Ref: S8LUS4Z6ME