Italian Ceramic and Brass Duck Vide-Poche

Italian Ceramic and Brass Duck Vide-Poche

Sculptural Duck Form

This charming Italian duck vide-poche transforms a practical household object into a playful work of decorative art. Designed in the form of a swimming duck, it captures the wit and character often found in Italian decorative objects of the post-war period.

The body is crafted from ceramic with a convincing wood-grain finish. This clever trompe-l’œil treatment gives the surface a warm, organic appearance while retaining the smooth and durable qualities of fired clay. Meanwhile, the head and neck are fashioned from polished brass. The duck’s slightly open bill and alert posture add a lively sense of naturalism.

Ceramic and Polished Brass

The contrast between the two materials gives this Italian ceramic and brass duck its distinctive character. The warm brown ceramic body provides an earthy foundation, while the polished brass head introduces a refined metallic accent.

Moreover, the wood-grain effect creates visual depth across the body. As a result, the piece has the appearance of carved wood at first glance, revealing its ceramic construction upon closer inspection.

Signed Tarzia Firenze

The piece bears the signature Tarzia Firenze, a Florentine workshop associated with decorative objects that combine traditional Tuscan craftsmanship with mid-century design. Florence has a long history of excellence in the decorative arts, and workshops such as Tarzia helped sustain this tradition during the 1960s and 1970s.

Consequently, this duck vide-poche represents more than a functional accessory. It also reflects the playful and highly decorative approach characteristic of Italian design from the period.

Functional Vide-Poche Design

The term vide-poche literally means “empty pocket.” It describes a shallow receptacle designed to hold everyday personal items such as keys, coins, cufflinks, or jewelry. Here, the hollowed back of the duck serves as the catchall.

This imaginative design makes the object particularly versatile. Place it on an entryway console, desk, side table, or bedroom dresser. Furthermore, its generous 36.5 cm length gives it a substantial decorative presence while maintaining an elegant, approachable scale.

Italian Mid-Century Decorative Craft

With its combination of sculptural form, trompe-l’œil ceramic, and polished brass, this Italian duck vide-poche is a distinctive example of post-war decorative craftsmanship. Its playful subject makes it especially appealing to collectors of Italian design and unusual vintage accessories.

The piece is offered in very good vintage condition.

Details

• Style: Italian mid-century decorative design
• Period: 1960s–1970s
• Workshop: Tarzia Firenze
• Material: Ceramic and polished brass
• Form: Swimming duck
• Function: Vide-poche / catchall
• Condition: Very good vintage condition
• Origin: Florence, Italy

Dimensions

• Width: 36.5 cm (14.4 in)
• Depth: 14 cm (5.5 in)
• Height: 16.5 cm (6.5 in)