A Stunning Ceramic Piece Takes Center Stage on “Bares für Rares”
A remarkable ceramic kettle caught the eye of many during a recent episode of “Bares für Rares.” Originally belonging to the mother of 44-year-old Severine Löwe-Männer, the item was found at a flea market about 15 years ago for a mere five euros.
This ceramic kettle had been treasured by Severine’s family, standing proudly in the hallway of their six-member household. Initially, she hoped to garner around 500 euros for this cherished heirloom. “This isn’t just my kettle; it’s my mother’s,” she shared at the start of the show with a warm smile. “If it has survived four wild boys, then it deserves to live on,” quipped host Horst Lichter, setting the tone for the intriguing segment ahead.
The Expert’s Revelation – A Fortunate Windfall for Severine
In the episode, Severine, who is married and a mother to four sons, also mentioned her care for two geckos that originally belonged to her eldest child. Art historian Bianca Berding quickly recognized that the kettle was a valuable piece created by the famous French artist Jean Lurçat, a contemporary of Pablo Picasso. This particular piece, known as the “Blue Moon” kettle, was produced around 1955 in the Sant Vicens workshop in Provence, part of a limited series of only 150 units. Severine’s kettle is notably marked as number 14.
Despite some minor wear from a later glaze application, the kettle has remained in good condition. Berding estimated its value to be between 1,400 and 1,800 euros, leaving Severine visibly astounded and excited.
The Artistic Background of Jean Lurçat
Bianca Berding provided context about Jean Lurçat, explaining how the artist was exposed to various artistic movements, including avant-garde and expressionism. His impressions were then transformed into vibrant patterns and designs, primarily featured on textiles. Lurçat applied the same techniques to ceramics, like the kettle presented, which was primarily used before the advent of running water.
As the segment progressed into the dealer room, what followed was a fierce bidding war. The auction began with an initial bid of 160 euros, but the excitement quickly escalated. Art dealer Julian Schmitz-Avila ultimately secured the kettle for 1,300 euros. “The bidding was surprising to me; I didn’t expect so many dealers to compete for it,” Severine reflected after the sale. She expressed satisfaction with the outcome, considering it a fortunate turn of events for her family.
It’s moments like these that define the essence of “Bares für Rares,” where hidden treasures are unearthing stories that connect both past and present. To discover more local news from Wunsiedel and its surroundings, viewers are encouraged to check out the local news section. Interestingly, one of the participants frequently seen in long-term reality documentary “Born Famous – A Curse or a Blessing?” is Fränkin Gloria Burkandt, daughter of Markus Söder, adding another layer of intrigue to the show’s community context.
