Description:

Juanita Louise Gonzales (American/New Orleans, 1903-1935), "Rare Arts Decoratifs Ceramic Fireplace Mantel", grey, blue and pink glaze, later wood base, h. 64 in., w. 38 1/2 in., d. 6 in.; together with 2 photographic reproductions, one of original watercolor study and one of mantel in situ, 11 in. x 8 1/2 in. and 9 1/2 in. x 7 3/4 in., framed alike. (3 pcs.) Ill.: Cox, Paul Ernest. "Potteries of the Gulf Coast". Ceramic Age June 1935: 196-197. Note: Born in New Orleans to Juan Gonzales, who was Spanish-born but raised in Cuba, and Louise Schwenck of Louisiana, Juanita Gonzales attended Newcomb College, graduating with a Bachelor of Design in 1925. Gonzales then moved to New York to study with the Russian avant-garde artist Alexander Archipenko and worked there until 1931. Returning to New Orleans, Gonzales joined the faculty at Newcomb College, as well as teaching courses at the Arts and Crafts Club and retaining a studio on Governor Nicholls Street, where she created works in a variety of media. Gonzales was best known for her talent in ceramics and sculpture and was well noted for “her research work in the development of glazes and enamels.” Examples of her work, such as the vase with seahorse handles now conserved in the Louisiana State Museum, are scarce due to her untimely death in 1935 after a long illness, but her reputation as a master ceramicist remains. The fireplace surround offered here is a rare and stunning piece from her oeuvre and clearly demonstrates her skill as a designer and her talent at ceramics. The multi-piece fluted mantle and surround is glazed in blue-gray and pink, and incorporates stylized Art Deco designs so reminiscent of the time. Ref.: Cox, Paul E. “Potteries of the Gulf Coast.” Ceramic Age. June 1935: 196-197.

  • Condition: All lots are sold “As is” and “Where is”. Neal Auction provides condition reports on items with a low estimate over $500 as a courtesy to aid in your bidding decision. No statement regarding age, condition, kind, value, or quality of a lot, whether made orally at the auction or at any other time, or in writing in this catalogue or elsewhere, shall be construed to be an express or implied warranty, representation, or assumption of liability. Completed condition reports are posted as an additional image with the lot. Neal Auction does not give refunds.

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November 17, 2018 10:00 AM CST
New Orleans, LA, US

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