Michael Cardew (British, 1901-1983), Vase, circa 1960

Stoneware, mottled blue glaze with incised design at the shoulder, impressed MC and Abuja Pottery seals H 17.0cm, D 11.5cm PROVENANCE: Collection of the late Michael Ensor. Acquired directly from the artist. Then by descent to the present owner. REFERENCE: This vase (together with lots 30 and 31) are from the collection of the late Michael Ensor. Michael Ensor was posted to Ada in Ghana in 1946 to work as District Commissioner, during which time he met and became friends with Michael Cardew, who was around 20 miles upriver in Vume. They lost touch after Ensor left his post in 1947, but re-connected later during Cardew’s time at Abuja when he came to stay with Ensor in Lagos. This vase likely dates to this time, as a number of works were gifted from Cardew to Ensor during their acquaintance. LITERATURE: Tanya Harrod, 'The Last Sane Man: Michael Cardew', Yale University Press, New Haven and London, 2012, pp.209-10. Tanya Harrod notes of Cardew's time at Volta Pottery in Vume, 'One of his first friends and supporters was the local Assistant District Officer Michael Ensor...Despite the difference in age, Ensor liked Michael, who was the only European upstream within fifty miles...Ensor would call with a reassuring copy of the New Statesman or some tinned cheese or powdered milk.' CONDITION: Perfect condition with no damage or restoratio ceramics

Estimate:£400

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