Group Of Ceramic Sculptures “san Polo Venezia” – Masks From The Commedia Dell’arte

Charming group of three polychrome and gold-glazed ceramic sculptures, handcrafted in the traditional artisan workshops of the San Polo district in Venice. These pieces depict masks from the Italian commedia dell’arte, with caricatured features and theatrical poses, created with remarkable artisanal skill.

The three characters – likely Harlequin, Pulcinella and Captain Spaventa – are shown reclining or resting on sculpted ceramic bases resembling draped fabric, and still retain the original holes once used to support wall sconces (lighting fixtures not included).

On the back, the hand-painted inscription “San Polo Venezia Italy” confirms the Venetian origin, and one of the pieces bears a production number, further proof of small-scale artisanal production.

Historical Note:
San Polo is one of the oldest districts of Venice, known for its artistic workshops active in the post-war era, specializing in fine decorative ceramics aimed at collectors and tourists. These examples are a testament to 20th-century Venetian ceramic artistry and its ability to reinterpret Italian theatrical traditions with a modern spirit.

The San Polo artistic ceramics manufactory was founded in 1947 in the San Polo district of Venice and became renowned for several important collaborations, including that with Otello Rosa, who became its creative director. The manufactory operated under the name San Polo for 10 years, after which it was sold to Ceramiche Veneziane, continuing production until 1972. Today, the manufactory no longer exists.