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Cotswold House Antiques
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Neil Ions - Huge Studio Pottery Bird with Ocarina


Sorry, this item is now sold. If you are seeking similar, feel free to contact me with your requirements. Thank you.
NEIL IONS - EXCEPTIONAL HUGE STUDIO POTTERY BIRD SCULPTURE WITH OCARINA.
A glorious and most unusual piece by the highly regarded Cotswold ceramic artist, Neil Ions.
Known for his brilliantly conceived ceramic bird sculptures - sometimes with a smaller detachable ceramic object that can be played (an ocarina) - this piece is, even by Neil Ions' high standards, a superb and monumental example of his work.
Sculpted as a Black-backed Gull and decorated in matt polychrome glazes to each side, this quirky item stands some 17 inches tall.
As with other Ions' sculptures, the main sculpture comes complete with a detachable, musical instrument called an ocarina. In this case it takes the form of a Swift (or Swallow) which locates into a hole half way up the flank of the gull. The Swift motif is echoed again in the painted decoration, where they can be seen flying around a house, before a sea - the surface of which is being breached by a dolphin.
The ocarina works beautifully, with four holes/notes, producing a wonderful sound.
I have not come across a piece by Neil Ions on quite this grand scale before.....nor indeed one that is quite as cryptic or 'allegorical' in its decoration.
This is a large and striking piece of ceramic art and will not disappoint.
Fully signed (painted signature) near the base, and dated 1985.
A fun, unusuall and charming gift for the bird / pottery lover.
Condition
In super condition, but not immaculate. There is one minor repair to the locating/hanging hook of the little ocarina (the part that fits into the hole of the gull). Not at all noticeable when in place. Mentioned here for the strictest of accuracy.
Email or call for any further information on this item. We give great attention to each and every item we select and offer for sale, priding ourselves on the accuracy of our descriptions and research. We are very happy to provide complete and exacting condition reports (together with further photographs, where necessary) and encourage buyers to request this information prior to purchase.
Accepted payment methods are via paypal, bank transfer, personal cheque or cash.
Viewing of any item in person, prior to purchase, is always welcomed by appointment.
SellerCotswold House Antiques
View all stock from
Cotswold House Antiques

Private dealer
By appointment only
Near Cheltenham
Gloucestershire
Tel : 07521 214424
Non UK callers : +44 7521 214424
NEIL IONS - EXCEPTIONAL HUGE STUDIO POTTERY BIRD SCULPTURE WITH OCARINA.
A glorious and most unusual piece by the highly regarded Cotswold ceramic artist, Neil Ions.
Known for his brilliantly conceived ceramic bird sculptures - sometimes with a smaller detachable ceramic object that can be played (an ocarina) - this piece is, even by Neil Ions' high standards, a superb and monumental example of his work.
Sculpted as a Black-backed Gull and decorated in matt polychrome glazes to each side, this quirky item stands some 17 inches tall.
As with other Ions' sculptures, the main sculpture comes complete with a detachable, musical instrument called an ocarina. In this case it takes the form of a Swift (or Swallow) which locates into a hole half way up the flank of the gull. The Swift motif is echoed again in the painted decoration, where they can be seen flying around a house, before a sea - the surface of which is being breached by a dolphin.
The ocarina works beautifully, with four holes/notes, producing a wonderful sound.
I have not come across a piece by Neil Ions on quite this grand scale before.....nor indeed one that is quite as cryptic or 'allegorical' in its decoration.
This is a large and striking piece of ceramic art and will not disappoint.
Fully signed (painted signature) near the base, and dated 1985.
A fun, unusuall and charming gift for the bird / pottery lover.
Condition
In super condition, but not immaculate. There is one minor repair to the locating/hanging hook of the little ocarina (the part that fits into the hole of the gull). Not at all noticeable when in place. Mentioned here for the strictest of accuracy.
Email or call for any further information on this item. We give great attention to each and every item we select and offer for sale, priding ourselves on the accuracy of our descriptions and research. We are very happy to provide complete and exacting condition reports (together with further photographs, where necessary) and encourage buyers to request this information prior to purchase.
Accepted payment methods are via paypal, bank transfer, personal cheque or cash.
Viewing of any item in person, prior to purchase, is always welcomed by appointment.
Price The price has been listed in British Pounds.
Conversion rates as of 6/MAY/2025. Euro & Dollar prices will vary and should only be used as a guide.
Always confirm final price with dealer. Sold
Dimensions17 inches tall.
Category Antique Ceramics
Date 1985
1980s Antiques Material Ceramic
Origin English
Designer Neil Ions
Condition Condition excellent. One minor repair to locating hook on the ocarina, not noticeable when attached to the gull.
Item code as693a005
Status Sold
£0 
$0.00 
€0.00 

$

€

Conversion rates as of 6/MAY/2025. Euro & Dollar prices will vary and should only be used as a guide.
Always confirm final price with dealer. Sold
Shipping information
Items may be collected in person or delivered to you. Smaller items are sent well packed, on a first-class, fully tracked and signed-for service. Larger items are delivered to you via private courier. UK delivery for courier items is usually within 1 week of receiving payment and we will always aim to fit with your schedule, where possible.
View all stock from
Cotswold House Antiques


By appointment only
Near Cheltenham
Gloucestershire
Tel : 07521 214424
Non UK callers : +44 7521 214424
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