Large and impressive mid‑century Sicilian studio pottery vase hand‑thrown and signed by the maker, Robert Gagliani, with bold abstract decoration and strong decorative presence - Ideal as a floor‑standing statement piece
Why We Love It … This is a wonderfully characterful piece of Sicilian studio pottery — bold, expressive and full of mid‑century charm. The abstract wave‑motif decoration, earthy palette and hand‑thrown form give it a warm, tactile presence. At 50cm tall, it makes a striking floor‑standing accent, and the signature of the maker, Robert Gagliani, adds a personal touch typical of regional Sicilian workshops of the period.
At a Glance – Appeal, Desirability & Collectibility
• Date: Mid‑20th century (c.1950s–70s)
• Origin: Sicily, Italy
• Maker: Signed Robert Gagliani (regional artisan)
• Medium: Hand‑thrown clay body
• Style: Mid‑century Sicilian studio pottery
• Decoration:
• Bold abstract decoration typical of southern Italy
• Abstract banding and wave motifs
• Earthy glazes in ochre, grey, green and soft blue
• Confident hand‑painted detailing
• Dimensions:
• Height: 50cm (19.7")
• Diameter: 22cm (8.7")
• Condition:
• Very good overall
• Minor age‑related marks consistent with handmade pottery
• Notable Details:
• Large, sculptural floor‑standing form (50cm tall)
• Warm, earthy palette
• Signed by the maker Robert Gagliani (regional artisan)
• Strong decorative visual impact
• Why They’re Appealing:
• Perfect for Mediterranean, rustic, bohemian or mid‑century interiors
• Easy to place in both retail and interior design settings
• Strong decorative value; ideal as a standalone statement piece
• Display Ideas:
• Floor‑standing in hallways, living rooms or sunrooms
• Beautiful with dried stems or sculptural branches
• Works well as a standalone statement piece
• Versatility:
• Warm palette complements natural woods, stone and neutral schemes
• Collectibility:
• Mediterranean studio pottery is increasingly sought after
• Large decorative pieces are popular with interior designers
• Works beautifully in rustic, boho, coastal and mid‑century schemes
• Authentic, handmade feel - not mass‑produced
• Delivery is not included - please use the Delivery Quote tab prior to purchase
Heritage, History & Craftsmanship
This impressive mid‑century vase is a fine example of Sicilian studio pottery - expressive, hand‑crafted and rooted in the island’s long ceramic tradition. Signed by Robert Gagliani, a regional artisan likely working within a small independent workshop, the piece reflects the decorative language typical of southern Italy in the 1950s–70s: bold abstract motifs, rhythmic banding and warm, earthy glazes.
The vase is hand‑thrown, giving it a pleasingly organic form, and the decoration is applied with a confident, fluid hand. The stylised wave‑like pattern encircling the body is particularly striking, adding movement and visual interest. At 50cm tall, it has real presence - ideal as a floor‑standing accent or as a sculptural decorative object in its own right.
While Gagliani is not a documented “name” in the major Italian ceramic archives, this is entirely typical of Sicilian pottery of the period, where many talented artisans produced distinctive work for local homes, hotels and regional markets rather than for international distribution. The result is a piece that feels authentic, personal and full of Mediterranean warmth.
Styling Suggestions
• Perfect as a floor‑standing vase with dried grasses or branches
• Beautiful in Mediterranean, rustic, boho or mid‑century interiors
• Works well beside consoles, fireplaces or in hallway corners
• Pair with terracotta, natural woods, rattan and linen for a cohesive look
• Ideal as a sculptural standalone piece in minimalist spaces
Explore Every Facet
These images form an essential part of the condition report and are intended to provide complete transparency and confidence in your purchase.•
• Hand‑thrown clay body
• Abstract painted decoration
• Signature to base
• Glaze details and surface texture
• Overall condition and proportions
Sustainable Style
Choosing mid‑century studio pottery supports craftsmanship, reuse and individuality. Each piece carries the hand of its maker, offering a warmth and authenticity that mass‑produced ceramics cannot replicate.
Purchase with Confidence
White’s Antiques carefully selects each item for authenticity, craftsmanship, and decorative presence. You are warmly invited to visit our Showroom at The Vinery, Poling, West Sussex to experience our collections in person.
Delivery & Collection Information
• Collection from our Sussex showroom
• Local delivery available
• Nationwide couriers arranged on request
• Please obtain a Delivery Quote before purchase
measurements
Height:
50 cm
Diameter:
22 cm
measurements
declaration
White’s Antiques has clarified that the Mid‑Century Sicilian Floor Standing Studio Pottery Vase, Signed Robert Gagliani (LA568332) is genuinely of the period declared with the date/period of manufacture being Mid 20th Century