Vintage French Carved Ceramic Two-Tone Crackled Turtle Sculpture Raku Method

$1,300

About

Decorate a table or entry commode with this one-of-a-kind “Tortue” sculpture (French for tutle). Crafted in southern France and built of ceramic using the Raku method, the vintage tortoise is set on its flat and stable shell. Captured in a crawling position the reptile has a wise and gentle expression, further embellished shell scutes and claws in high relief. The terracotta sculpture is in excellent condition commensurate with age and use, and adorns a rich two-tone patinated antique crackled finish in the grey and beige palette. The sculptural art work would make a great addition to any office or study. A must for turtle lovers! The Raku technique is essentially when glazed ceramics are taken from the kiln while they are still glowing red hot and are then placed in a material that would be able to catch fire, such as sawdust or newspaper. This technique is used to starve the piece of oxygen, which creates a myriad of colors within the glaze. The word “turtle” comes from the French “tortue,” which traces back to the Latin “tartaruchus,” meaning “of the underworld,” reflecting ancient beliefs about their mysterious and enduring nature. In some cultures, turtles hold significant symbolic and spiritual meaning, representing longevity, stability, and wisdom. 10.5″W x 14″D x 4.75″H

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