GOLEM DESIGN STUDIO “NARVAL ART” Jasperware “Hoopoe on Hazelnut Tree”

1 7/8”, NBS large, new condition.

This design is adapted from the Thomas Webb collection. Contact me to inquire about other background colors.

NARVAL ART buttons are the newest creation from the mind and hands of Vladislav Ivanov, the Bulgarian ceramic artist responsible for Golem Design Studio buttons, the colorful and whimsical ceramic buttons that are a favorite with collectors.

Vlad and his friend and fellow artist woodcarver Evgeniy Grigorov have worked for years to develop and perfect their interpretation of a traditional jasperware style. When the correct clay was finally sourced, the designs were researched and fine tuned, and the molds were carved, the complex and tricky process could begin, with always the possibility for one mistake causing complete failure.

The NARVAL ART buttons feature renderings of designs by Anton Seder or William Morris of the Arts & Crafts era. Others reflect neo classical style and some draw inspiration from Japanese textile art. Every piece the two artists create is a tribute not only to beauty and form but also to dedication, skill and timeless craftsmanship.

The origin of the name NARVAL ART comes from the original Scandinavian spelling of the English word narwhal, a rare dolphin-like sea creature with a long unicorn style tusk. For Vlad and Evgeniy this creature symbolizes the uniqueness of what they create, something very real, but rare.