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Lot # A648

Italian Blue Glazed Ceramic Hippo — Bitossi Rimini Blue Style View Watchlist >

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Lot # A648
System ID # 26030775

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Description

Italian Blue Glazed Ceramic Hippo — Bitossi Rimini Blue Style

Striking Italian ceramic hippopotamus in vibrant turquoise-blue crackle glaze with stylized black lotus and papyrus motifs, echoing the famous Egyptian faience “William” hippo. This mid-20th century piece bears a “Made in Italy” label on the underside and reflects the celebrated Rimini Blu style associated with Bitossi Ceramiche of Montelupo Fiorentino. The richly hued glaze and expressive hand-drawn decoration exemplify the Italian modernist approach to whimsical animal forms popular in the 1950s–1970s.

Comparable to Bitossi’s Aldo Londi designs, this hippo combines artistic craftsmanship with playful charm—an ideal accent for collectors of Italian mid-century ceramics or modern decorative art.


Condition:

Good condition overall, with fine glaze crazing consistent with age. No chips, cracks, or repairs observed. Glaze remains glossy and deeply colored, displaying the typical hand-applied character of Italian studio pottery.


Dimensions:

Overall: 4 1/2" H × 7 1/2" L × 2 3/4" W
Weight: 1 lb 3.7 oz


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