Preliminary identification

Italian Majolica Lattice Fruit Basket, c. 1960s-1970s

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This is a classic example of Italian 'intrecciato' (interwoven) ceramic work, featuring a hand-formed lattice body and high-relief applied fruit.

Story

Post-war Italy saw a massive resurgence in artisanal ceramics as the country rebuilt its economy through the 'Made in Italy' brand. These baskets were often purchased as sophisticated souvenirs by travelers or imported to high-end department stores like Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdale's.

Maker / Origin

While often marked simply 'Italy' or 'Hand Painted,' these pieces primarily originate from the Veneto region, specifically the town of Bassano del Grappa.

Condition & Value

The piece appears to be in excellent vintage condition with no visible chips to the delicate leaf tips or fruit stems. In these woven pieces, even a small hairline crack in the lattice can be structural, but this example looks well-preserved. Excellent condition is rare for this type of ceramic and maintains its modest value.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD