Eva Zeisel died on 12/30/2011 aged 105

[andiesenji]

For lovers of tableware and ceramics from the mid-twentieth century, the designs of Eva Zeisel are iconic.

I have many pieces, including dinnerware, decorative pieces, a tea service, etc.

In my opinion the designs she produced are timeless in that they appear as new and fresh today as when they were produced. I have the Harlequin dinnerware by Hallcraft purchased new in 1962, some ten years after it was introduced.

She stated her philosophy (and mine also) so well when she told one writer: “Men have no concept of how to design things for the home,” she told a writer. “Women should design the things they use.”

I missed this news when it was first published but fortunately noticed it in one of the monthly bulletins I receive:

Antiques & Collecting Newsletter

I also have a few pieces of the "Fantasy" pattern, received as gifts from people who apparently confused it with the Harlequin pattern. The designs actually do complement each other.

Harlequin plates

Edited February 1, 2012 by andiesenji (log)

[Chris Amirault]

Remarkable work, particularly for those of us who value midcentury design. Thanks, Eva.

[Yajna Patni]

She was a wonderful designer. I also have a few pieces of the fantasy pattern, and they are some of my favorite dishes.

[FrogPrincesse]

A few years ago, I had a chance to visit a great exhibit at the Mingei museum in San Diego, Eva Zeisel: Extraordinary Designer at 100. We have a few of her designs from the Classic Century line at home. Really beautiful pieces.

[Yajna Patni]

And now i look at your picture. I realize that my plates are harlequin not fantasy, and I had confused them. Andi, your knowledge always floors me.

[Yajna Patni]

I just read the obit Andi linked to, it is amazing. Eva Ziesel was imprisoned in solitary confinement in the dark when she was younger, and she said it changed how she saw or felt about colors. What an interesting and profound thought.

[SylviaLovegren]

Thanks for posting this.

[haresfur]

A few years ago, I had a chance to visit a great exhibit at the Mingei museum in San Diego, Eva Zeisel: Extraordinary Designer at 100. We have a few of her designs from the Classic Century line at home. Really beautiful pieces.

San Diego has a Mingei museum? I need to make a trip! I guess if you want to live past a hundred, become a ceramist: Beatrice Wood