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Welcome to Unicorn Woods!
Thank you so much for taking the time to view our listing. If you love unique vintage finds, studio art pottery, and rare collectibles, please take a moment to add us to your Favorite Sellers list so you never miss our new arrivals!
Up for sale is an extraordinary piece of studio art pottery—a towering, heavy 13.5-inch abstract face vessel with dramatic pierced cutout eyes, sweeping carved facial geometry, and sgraffito swirl accents highlighted in white. Hand-crafted from warm terracotta clay, finished in a smooth brushed brown slip, and incised on the base with the signature Armando de Mexico, this statement piece bridges the gap between traditional Mexican folk art and Mid-Century Modernist / Brutalist design.
Historical Context & Artistry
The creation of this vessel draws on the ancient ceramic tradition of Sgraffito (derived from the Italian sgraffiare, meaning "to scratch"), a technique dating back thousands of years where decorative designs are carved directly through a top layer of slip or engobe to reveal the contrasting clay body underneath. Mid-century Mexican artisans mastered this art form, blending centuries-old indigenous earthenware practices with European modernist influences—most notably the expressive, abstracted facial forms popularized by Pablo Picasso and the Brutalist architecture movement.
Unlike standard, smaller decorative vases from the region, this piece features fully pierced, 3D hollow cutout eyes that allow light and shadow to play dramatically through the interior. The inside is fully sealed with a dark glaze, preserving the structural integrity of the piece while offering a stunning contrast to the raw, organic matte texture of the terracotta exterior.
Condition & Dimensions
- Condition: Immaculate, museum-quality vintage condition. There are zero chips, cracks, fleabites, hairline fractures, or repairs. The delicate edges around the eye cutouts, rim, and base are pristine.
- Widest Diameter: 6.75 inches
- Base Diameter: 4.0 inches
- Weight: 4 lbs 1.6 oz (Unpacked)
Explore More at Unicorn Woods!
While you are here, we invite you to browse through our other listings! We specialize in curating an extraordinary selection of rare vintage glass and home decor. Be sure to check out our collection of antique and vintage glow glass (including UV-reactive Uranium, Vaseline, and Selenium glassware) that lights up any cabinet!
We also offer an extensive array of premium vintage and modern serveware from top name brands including Lenox, Russel Wright, Pier 1, and many more. Whether you are replacing a missing piece in a classic pattern or hunting for a striking dinner party centerpiece, we have something special waiting for you.
Shipping and packaging
We take extreme pride in our prompt shipping and safe delivery. Clay and ceramic art pieces require maximum protection, so we double-box large or fragile items, using heavy-duty bubble wrap around all delicate cutout areas, followed by custom dense foam corner padding. Your order will be packed with the utmost care and shipped out promptly with full insurance and tracking so it arrives at your doorstep in the exact same pristine condition pictured.
Thank you once again for stopping by! Please remember to click the favorite button and add unicornwoodsshop to your Favorite Sellers list to get updates on all of our latest vintage drop listings. Happy treasure hunting!
