Ralph Bacerra (American, 1938-2008). "Orange Form" ca. 1990s. Signed "Ralph" on the base. In true Ralph Bacerra style, "Orange Form" is a whimsical ceramic piece decorated in a rich vermilion hue with overglazed enamels and metallic lusters - both with gold content. At the peak of the voluminous quasi-conical form, Bacerra embellished the piece with passages of enameled gold dotted motifs over a yellow ochre ground, enameled gold dotted motifs over a forest green ground, and glaze pools of ruby red, strawberry, and apricot hues in the interstices - all surrounded by a curvilinear border with pinpoint perforations following the undulations at the pinnacle. The piece is simply magical, replete with a dazzling surface as well as a mesmerizing form rendered with wonderful curves and interstices. Inspired by Japanese Imari ware as well as ancient Chinese and Islamic ceramics, Bacerra made remarkable contributions to the field. Indicative of his immense skill and talent, Bacerra did not need to make any preliminary sketches before beginning a vessel. Instead, he worked in a more organic manner, taking inspiration from each element of his work. Size: 7" L x 9.7" W x 9.875" H (17.8 cm x 24.6 cm x 25.1 cm)

Ralph Bacerra earned his B.A. at the Chouinard Art Institute in Los Angeles, California where he studied under Vivika Heino. Bacerra would later succeed her as chair of the ceramics department. Following his time at Chouinard, he would become the chair of the ceramics department at Otis College of Art and Design in Los Angeles.

According to the Smithsonian American Art Museum, "Bacerra borrows from Chinese, Japanese, and Persian pottery and fabric designs to create visually energized works in which both form and surface receive his full attention. He adorns the surface with multilayered glazes of rich colors, china paints, and lusters that exploit the curves and crevices of a vessel to its maximum decorative potential."

Provenance: private Fanwood, New Jersey, USA collection; ex John Kluge collection, acquired from Lee Nordness Galleries, New York City, New York, USA - John Kluge was a prominent figure in the television industry of the US during the 20th century, leading Metromedia to great success.

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#168701

Fine line just above the base and running around the vessel suggests a repair; however, it may also be a decorative gestural mark. Sculpture is in overall excellent condition. It is hand-signed "Ralph" on the base, and there is a label for Lee Nordness Galleries, New York City on the base as well. The hole on the base is an intentional vent hole for the firing process.