Welcome to this Moorcroft pottery auction where I have on
offer a superb, attractive and highly collectable Moorcroft vase in the “SERENDIPITY”
design by NICOLA SLANEY. This 121/14 signed vase was designed by Nicola in 2001
and is LIKE NEW in totally MINT, PRISTINE condition (see later). Nicola joined
Moorcroft in 1997, originally as a painter and has since gone on to produce
many high quality and prestigious designs. This is yet another design by Nicola
which received high acclaim and was considered a personal favourite in the 2001
catalogue by Donald Reid. It is the colour palette which is atmospheric and
visually very appealing. It was produced specifically by her for the 2001 catalogue
as a limited edition piece of 300 (this one being Nos 38) and it proved to be a
sell out item (Moorcroft “A New Dawn” P84-87).
Serendipity refers to finding interesting things by chance.
In this scene it could (perhaps) be referring to the tranquil unexpected view
as one peers through the dense vegetation. The design is characterised by an intense
and subtle blend of dark colours providing the perfect backdrop for the sail
boats on the water in the distance. It is quite a complex design to describe.
In the foreground there are fern like leaves at the top (light to mid green)
with orange and plum coloured berries.
Towards the base there are flowers (lilies?) with a mosaic of colour (see
photos). There is also a coloured band around the base of the vase. In the
distance, around the middle there is what appears to be a lake with sailboats
(brown and white). This image is repeated on both sides of the vase. Both the
sky and lake are differing shades of blue. The minimal ground (top and bottom)
is a very dark blue (almost black). This multi layering adds a sense of depth
to the whole visual experience. There is so much to admire. This is a design/large
vase is sure to attract attention no matter where it is placed on display
because of the interesting range of colour palettes used. The sense of depth
almost presents a 3D effect and the whole design displays why Nicola is such a
talented and respected member of the Moorcroft design studio. The plentiful
tube lining is a delight and in PERFECT order.
Having examined extensively this stunning vase appears, at
least to my eyes, to be in excellent FIRST QUALITY, PRISTINE MINT condition
with NO chips, NO cracks, and NO restoration whatsoever. It is UNMARKED and the
tube lining is in perfect order. NO red dot, silver line or graded mark. There
is NO crazing whatsoever. A first rate
piece of Moorcroft pottery. Throughout the time I have owned this delightful
piece it has been kept in a glass display cabinet.
This magnificent 121/14 vase stands 14.2 inches (36 cm) tall
and is 5.2 inches (13 cm) at its widest section. This prestige sized vase provides
ample space for Nicola to explore and portray her theme to best effect. This
vase also comes complete with its own Moorcroft presentation BOX (very large)
which I would class as being in good condition.
It is impressive to say the least. There is a “Moorcroft –
Made in Stoke on Trent England” back stamp. The initials SP indicate the tube
liner was Sarah Wild (nee Pendlebury 2001) while HS indicates the painter was
Hayley Cook (nee Smith). The leaf signifies it was made in 2001 (c2000) and the
limited number of 38/300 is also present. Nicola has SIGNED this piece on the
base. There is also a WM monogram on the base.
I hope my honest, accurate description, photos and highly
valued and complimentary feedback will enable you to bid with absolute
confidence in the quality of this item and the accuracy/honesty of the
information given. To help further, the first five photos were taken outdoors
while the rest indoors. Photos 6, 7 and 8 are with flash. Personally, I think
the three indoor photos WITH FLASH display the colour palette most accurately,
particularly the depth of colour used.
I have placed this on a seven day auction; there is no
reserve and a low start price. There is, as ever, NO buy it now price. I will
post this item out extremely securely and because of its large size, especially
when in its presentation box, I will send by Royal Mail next day special 24
hour delivery to ensure its safe arrival. It will be posted to the successful
bidder ASAP after payment has been received and cleared.
This is one fantastic piece of Moorcroft pottery and is a
worthy addition to any collector`s display equally it would make a superb gift.
Many thanks for looking.