Vintage 1950s Italian Ceramic Shell Form Centrepiece Marine Life Vase Ceramica Celesta

This large sculptural Ceramica Celesta Italian shell form centrepiece vase is a striking example of mid-century Italian marine life ceramics, likely dating to the late 1950s or early 1960s. Made in Italy and marked Ceramica Celesta Italy 807, the piece features a dramatic flowing shell form with applied sea life including a stylized squid, starfish, and shell motifs against a soft turquoise interior glaze.

Italian decorative studios in the mid-century period produced sculptural ceramics inspired by Mediterranean coastal themes and sea life, often designed as table centrepieces or decorative vessels. The elongated shell form and textured exterior give this piece a highly organic, almost wave-like appearance, finished in softly blended tones of cream, pale yellow, and light green.

Because of its large size and horizontal form, this piece works beautifully as a table centrepiece, console display, or sculptural decorative bowl, and it can also be used as a vase for low floral arrangements.

The underside is clearly marked Ceramica Celesta Italy and the original Celesta Ceramica foil label with logo remains attached.

Dimensions

Length: 20 1/4 in
Height at tip: 9 1/4 in
Depth at opening: approx. 5 in

Condition

In very good condition with minor wear consistent with age.
There are a couple of small glaze flakes at the pointed end tip and a few small glaze fleabites along the upper edge of the opening (see last 2 close-up photos). These do not detract from the overall appearance and the piece displays beautifully.

Why Collectors Like These

Large mid-century Italian marine life ceramics are sought after for their sculptural forms and coastal design aesthetic. Pieces from smaller Italian studios such as Ceramica Celesta were produced primarily for export markets and are less commonly seen today in this large size.