Hand-Painted Ceramic Vase by BMC Sesto Fiorentino

This hand-decorated vase brings a Renaissance revival in a compact, sculptural form. The serpentine handles curl upward in a symmetrical sweep, framing a body painted in classic Raphaelesque motifs ⎯ scrolling acanthus, bold colour contrasts, and finely controlled lines. Made in vitrified ceramic, it has the bright glaze and crisp detailing tied to centuries of maiolica craft.

A small statement piece with a grounded presence, it was made by Barraud, Messeri & Co (BMC), a ceramic studio that operated until the end of the 1930s in the commune of Sesto Fiorentino in Florence. This particular style can still be found today in the town of Deruta, one of Italy's most historic ceramic centres. Its workshops have produced maiolica since the Middle Ages, refining techniques and motifs that still shape the region's identity today.

• Designer, maker: Barraud, Messeri & Co. (BMC)
• Material, technique: hand-painted ceramic
  
• Origin: Florence, Italy
• Period: 1930s
  
• Measurements: L5.5 x W4.5 x H9.5 / L13.5 x W11 x H24 cm
• Condition: good vintage condition, two chips on the bottom edge (shown in images)