Retro Italian Bitossi Aldo Londi Large Leaf-Shaped Bowl No. C96/26

This is a highly attractive example of a 1950s bowl, signed by Aldo Londi for Bitossi.

The large capacious bowl is approximately hemispherical and is drawn out on one side to a point and on the opposing side to create a short stalk. The bowl is glazed on the interior in white on one half and a dark tan or ochre shade on the other half. There is a black striped motif on each half of the interior, which gives the appearance of stylised veins. The rim is glazed in matte black, as is the exterior of the bowl. One-half of the exterior has been dipped in a dark tan glaze, like the interior.

The base is marked by hand with the code ‘C96/26’ and the word ‘ITALY’. This signature, known as ‘ZTALY’, is attributable to Aldo Londi. He was the artistic director at Bitossi and was known to pitch in and mark pieces such as this.

It has a maximum height of approximately 8.7cm, with a maximum width across the top of about 26.2cm and a diameter across the base of about 11.8cm.

It has an unwrapped weight of 1000g.

It is in good condition overall but there are some shallow chips and flakes from the black glaze at the rim.  There are also some scratches to the glaze on the interior commensurate with use. It displays well and is a desirable piece, but the wear is reflected in the price.