Expert: Leisha Hiester - 7/25/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I found this old vase years ago when helping someone with there estate before moving into a retirement home. Vase was back in the closet along with blankets and such. There's just something about it! Measures 8 1/2" tall and the bottom reads "Germany 6792". Can you tell me anything about it? I have searched the net until I'm blue in the face. Thanks for any help you can provide.

ANSWER: Terri,
Can you send photos? Send one of the bottom markings also. I'll sure try to help.

Leisha

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QUESTION: I'm sorry I thought I did. I'm getting real good at not remembering to attach pics. Thanks for all your help.

ANSWER: Terri,
That something about it is that it is very Art Deco and emulates the style of Clarice Cliff! She was phenomenally successful in the 30's and many tried to emulate her work, mainly simple hand-painted blocks of color very similar to your vase. It is not much interest or value to collectors now to have a piece that is not clearly marked a 'Clarice Cliff' but it is quite interesting to own a piece of emulation from that period.
Do some googling on Clarice. You'll find it fascinating how similar your piece is to many of hers. I'm certain all over Europe during her period were emulating her infamous stylization.

Hope this helps. Leisha




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QUESTION: Hi Leisha,
Clarice Cliff was my first thought. Everything I've researched on her I found nothing other than in 1930's some pieces where not backstamped at all but nothing that said some of her work was embossed with "Germany and numbered 6792" or numberd at al for that matter. Thanks

Answer
Terri,
Without personally seeing the piece it is hard to tell, however my opinion is that it is probably an "emulation" or someone who has copied her style. It's definitely fascinating and if I owned the piece I'd take it to a professional. See if there is an appraiser in your town or local antique store even whose willing to take a look at it for you.
Leisha