1970s Signed Studio Art Pottery Surrealist Bird Mask Figural Ceramic Bust

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A wonderfully unusual signed studio pottery sculpture depicting a stylized human figure wearing a dramatic bird-like mask.
Hand-modeled in ceramic, … Read more A wonderfully unusual signed studio pottery sculpture depicting a stylized human figure wearing a dramatic bird-like mask.
Hand-modeled in ceramic, the small bust features an expressive human face with heavily outlined, almond-shaped eyes framed by a red and rust-colored mask. A sculptural mustard-yellow bird beak projects prominently from the center, creating a striking combination of human and avian characteristics.
The artist has given the sculpture a deliberately primitive, weathered surface with irregular coloration, incised markings and areas of exposed earthen tones. A softly mottled blue-green glazed base provides a beautiful contrast to the reds, ochres, charcoal gray and yellow of the face and mask.
The hand-worked surface, asymmetrical features and visible modeling marks give the piece the character of a unique studio-made artwork rather than a mass-produced decorative object.
Signed by the artist on the reverse near the base. The signature is visible but has not yet been conclusively identified.
An intriguing piece of contemporary/late-20th-century studio ceramics with elements of Surrealism, figurative art, folk art and outsider-art aesthetics. Excellent displayed as a small tabletop sculpture, cabinet piece or addition to a collection of contemporary studio pottery. See less