Studio Pottery Hedgehog By Elfriede Balzar Kopp

Stock Number: – OWA3118

Date: - Circa 1970s

Materials: – German Westerwald Clay; An Advantage For Potters! The extensive clay quarries of the Westerwald region are the largest connected deposits in Europe. Only a few other regions in the world are known to have clay sources of comparable size and quality. Around 15 different types of clay occur here, including a very valuable white clay also known as “white gold”. The Westerwald clay has a high degree of ductility, is almost free of impurities and has very good sintering properties. These clays are perfectly suited for stoneware production, a high fired, waterproof, acid-resistant, impermeable pottery. The clay was easily kneaded, thrown, deformed as well as knitted, melt, beaten and whipped. It is a serious partner to the potter reacting to any treatment. 

Country of Origin: – Germany, Höhr Grenzhausen

Description: – Mid Century desk weight figure of a Hedgehog made in the Höhr-Grenzhausen studios of Elfriede Balzar Kopp. The Hedgehog is superbly designed and decorated with traditional enamels and a salt glaze. The base is marked BK for Balzar Kopp. This study was made in three differing sizes.

Size & Weight: – The delightful study is 10.5cm tall 12cm long and weighs 505g.

Condition: – The figure is in excellent condition without any chips, cracks, losses or restoration to the body or decoration. 

Photography:- The photographs are a true likeness of the figure, there may be some slight marks or changes in colour against the real piece due to light reflections. The cobalt on this piece is actually stronger than the image portrays. 

History & Marks:–This example is marked with an incised BK to the base and dates from Circa 1970. Whilst no one could say that this piece is a one off study. One could however say, although you may come across another example, you would quickly realise that each one stands alone –  ‘it is a one off’. I state this because the outcome of each piece of studio pottery depends deeply on how it is placed in the kiln and moreover, how it reacts during the firing. Very few studio pieces are totally identical.

Declaration:- This figure is as described in the description and dates from the time period highlighted.

Further Information:- If you would like further information about Elfriede Balzar Kopps work and biography - please go to the information page, Click on the Biographies Page where you will see her name, Click on the image and the information will appear.

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