20th Century Decorative Art

The 20th Century Decorative Arts Department of Gregory’s Auction House is dedicated to the selection and enhancement of works of applied art, ceramics, glass, porcelain and ornamental objects from the twentieth century. In particular, this is a field characterised by a rich variety of forms, materials and techniques, in which art and function coexist to create objects of great charm and individuality. Furthermore, these works reflect the evolution of taste and the transformations that marked the course of the century.

First of all, every work entrusted to us is studied with care, taking into consideration its provenance, materials, technical characteristics, condition and collecting context. Furthermore, this work is supported by constant comparison with the market for twentieth-century decorative arts, which is essential for formulating accurate estimates consistent with the most recent auction results. Consequently, it is possible to identify the most appropriate positioning for each object. Finally, the department agrees a reserve price with the owner, defined according to the characteristics of the work and market dynamics, with the aim of protecting its value during the sale.

Alongside the study and preparation of the works, the department assists buyers with a complete and professional service. In particular, this includes the preparation of accurate condition reports, support with shipping quotations, the organisation of transport and assistance with export procedures. Furthermore, these services are especially important for both Italian and international clients.

Many of the works presented at auction come from private collections, often assembled over time with taste, care and sensitivity. Consequently, bringing these objects back to the market, while enhancing their provenance and collecting history, represents one of the most interesting and significant aspects of the department’s work.

Over the course of its auctions, the department has presented works of considerable interest, achieving significant results for works by some of the most representative artists and manufacturers of the twentieth century, both in Italy and internationally. In particular, this selection reflects the variety of decorative research developed throughout the century.

A particularly important role is occupied by twentieth-century ceramics, a field in which the department has presented works of notable quality and strong decorative impact. For example, among these is the large vase with ferns and birds by Galileo Chini, made between 1920 and 1925 and sold for €8,680.00. Furthermore, notable results include the spherical vase/lamp base by Gio Ponti for Richard Ginori – San Cristoforo, sold for €4,960.00, an important example of the collaboration between formal elegance and designer production. Finally, of particular significance is the rare group of the “Twelve Signs of the Zodiac” by Pietro Melandri, sold for €5,544.00, a refined example of the Faenza ceramic tradition.

Likewise, the department has achieved significant results for important Italian manufacturers, confirming the interest in the decorative arts of our region. In particular, notable examples include the glass “Uppa” from the “Bestiario” series by Toni Zuccheri for Venini, sold for €7,500.00, and works by the Lenci manufacture, including “Il mondo” by Helen König Scavini and Mario Sturani, sold for €11,780.00. Furthermore, the selection includes “Nella o Nasin”, also by Helen König Scavini, sold for €11,160.00, and “Zizi, La Passeggiata”, among the most recognisable expressions of this celebrated Turin production.

The overview of Italian ceramics is completed by the Cantagalli Manufacture, represented by a large polychrome ceramic pouring vessel made in Florence during the first half of the twentieth century. Furthermore, as regards the Bolognese context, particular note should be made of the significant result achieved by the Minghetti Manufacture with a large ceramic vase with a marble column, made in Bologna at the end of the nineteenth century. Overall, this work reflects the local tradition and the connection with the area in which Gregory’s operates.

Alongside ceramics, the sector of art glass and European decorative production has also achieved results of particular interest. For example, among the most significant international works is the celebrated “Pichet aux oiseaux” by Pablo Picasso, sold for €7,192.00, an important example of his ceramic production. Furthermore, this is joined by a polychrome pâte de verre vase by the Daum Nancy manufacture, sold for €3,780.00, and the refined “Apponyi Green” service by the Herend manufacture, sold for €4,000.00. Overall, these results demonstrate the high quality and variety of twentieth-century European production.

In summary, these results confirm the growing interest in twentieth-century decorative arts, a field in which glass, ceramics and porcelain continue to stand out for their quality, refinement, charm and collecting value.

Finally, over time, works entrusted from private collections and holdings have contributed to building an increasingly broad and international interest around the department, involving collectors and enthusiasts both in Italy and abroad. Consequently, consignors can present their objects to qualified collectors and enthusiasts, within a context capable of encouraging interest, participation and strong sale results.

Evaluation

Would you like to know the value of your artworks and explore their potential sale on the market?

Our experts are available to provide free and confidential valuations, whether for individual works or entire collections.

You will receive qualified advice and be guided through every stage of the sale process, whether at auction or through private negotiation, with a careful and personalised service.

Images and information regarding your artworks can be sent via:

• email or WeTransfer: aste@gregorysaste.it
• WhatsApp: +39 051 2960945

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