(Alabama, 1918-2013) each of naturalistic form, comprising: large square tray, signed and dated "Mary Kirk Kelly/2002" to base, 3/8 x 11-1/2 x 11-3/4 in.; three plates in varying colors, red, purple, and green, all signed "Mary Kirk Kelly" and dated to base, largest 5/8 x 7-7/8 in.; green lettuce low bowl, signed "Mary Kirk Kelly" to base, 1-3/4 x 8-3/8 in.; lettuce form bud vase, signed on base "Mary Kirk Kelly", 8-3/4 x 2-3/8 in.; red cabbage bowl, signed "Mark Kirk Kelly" on base, 2-1/2 x 7-1/4 in.

Note: Mary Kirk Kelly (1918-2013) was born and lived in Axis, Alabama. Known for her delightful ceramic sculptures of vegetables and fruits, Mary was exposed to the use of clay at an early age through her father who owned a local brickyard. Mary was a teacher the majority of her adult life until she retired in the 1970s. Following her retirement, she began to experiment with ceramics, first using clay found in the swimming holes nearby to make simple dishes and cups. It wasn't until a neighbor asked her to make a ceramic replica of a prized cabbage he'd grown, that Mary realized her passion for making naturalistic pottery. Brunk is pleased to bring to auction select pieces from her personal collection.

Provenance: Estate of Mary Kirk Kelly, Axis, Alabama

anomalies as made, pinholes, surface accretion/residue; square tray with chip to edge, areas of residue; purple plate with tiny chip to edge, green plate with pre glaze chip and repair; lettuce low bowl with small chip to edge, very small chip at rim underglaze; small chip to base of bud vase; small chip to edge of red bowl