Vintage Italian Ceramic Centerpiece Bowl / Vide-Poche by Carpié Sele-Arte, Nove (Vicenza), Italy – Mid-20th Century

Rare sculptural vide-poche produced by the renowned Italian manufacturer Carpié (Carpie) for the Sele-Arte line in Nove, Vicenza. The piece bears the original manufacturer’s label on the base: “Carpie Sele-Arte NOVE (Vic.) ITALY” with the brand’s stylized “S” logo and cherub motif. It is also hand-signed “Carpie” in gold script inside the bowl.

The bowl has a soft, organic squared shape with gently rounded corners and a wide opening. It is made of high-quality ceramic covered in a thick, glossy, semi-translucent white glaze with subtle opalescent reflections that shift to a delicate greenish-yellow tone near the base. The exterior features a deliberate textured, crackled-relief surface that gives it a modern, sculptural mid-century appeal.

The most distinctive feature is the applied three-dimensional decoration on one side:

• A stylized gold-metallic fish (or sea creature) with detailed modeling and fins;
• A large faceted clear crystal drop (likely Swarovski-type glass) elegantly suspended from the fish;
• Two clusters of small raised bubbles/grapes in light blue-grey with gold accents.

These elements create a whimsical aquatic-themed composition that beautifully catches and reflects light. The interior is smooth, pure white and fully glazed, making the bowl suitable as a decorative centerpiece, fruit bowl, or vide-poche.

Dimensions (approximate):
Height: ≈ 18-20 cm
Width (square opening): ≈ 18–22 cm
Depth: similar to width

Condition: Excellent vintage condition. No chips, cracks or restorations. Minor natural wear on the gold accents consistent with age. Original paper label present with light edge wear.

Notes on rarity: After extensive research across major platforms, no identical piece has been found. While other Carpié Sele-Arte items with gold and crystal accents exist (mainly jewelry boxes), this specific combination of the squared bowl form with the gold fish, hanging crystal drop and bubble clusters appears to be unique or extremely rare. This significantly increases its collectible value.

This piece perfectly embodies the playful yet sophisticated Italian ceramic design of the 1950s–1970s, blending glossy glazes, sculptural applied elements and crystal embellishments.