Gilbert Valentin

Q: I inherited a vase with this mark on the bottom. My Aunt bought it in France several years ago. The mark says "G. Valentin Les Archanges, Vallauris" and has a drawing of a vase with wings and a cloud shape above it. Can you tell me about the maker?

A: This mark was used by Gilbert Valentin (1928-2001), born in Nancy, France. In 1950, he and his wife, Lilette, moved to Vallauris, France, and established their workshop Les Archanges (The Archangels). He made earthenware, enamels, panels, tiles, sundials, and sculptures and also did lithography and weaving. His wife also worked in ceramics. Pottery has been made in Vallauris for almost 2,000 years. It became a center for modern ceramists in the 1950s, after Picasso moved there in 1948.