Black Glazed Ceramic Mirror Suspended on Rope

An original and characterful hanging mirror composed of a circular mirror disc set within a black-glazed ceramic surround formed with two arched handles — recalling the form of an ancient amphora or two-handled vessel turned to decorative purpose. The rope is threaded through both handles and continues above to form a hanging loop, while below the ceramic body a small ceramic ornament serves as both counterweight and decorative accent. The total hanging composition, from the apex of the rope loop to the tip of the lower ornament, measures 60 centimetres, making this a piece of considerable visual presence despite the modest diameter of the ceramic itself.

The black glaze — applied over the full surface of the ceramic frame — is typical of the decorative studio pottery produced throughout France in the post-war decades, when matte and semi-matte black glazes were widely used to lend simple artisanal forms an air of sophisticated restraint. The handmade quality of the ceramic is evident in the slight irregularities of the handle forms and the frame profile, qualities that contribute to the warmth and individuality of the piece. As noted, the glaze presents minor firing faults consistent with artisanal production of the period, which do not detract from the decorative effect.

The combination of ceramic and natural rope as complementary materials recalls the broader tradition of French natural-material decorative design in the 1960s and 1970s, in which fibres, cordage and fired clay were combined to produce objects that sat at the productive intersection of craft, utility and ornament.

In good condition, with minor glaze imperfections as described. Overall dimensions: 23 cm wide by 60 cm tall in its hanging configuration, 4.5 cm in the depth of the ceramic frame. A singular and collectible piece of French artisanal design, admirably suited to a kitchen, hallway or informal living space.