Large pair of 20th century Spanish Orientalist ceramic chargers by Cearco

Large pair of 20th century Spanish Orientalist ceramic chargers by Cearco
Spanish, c. 1975
Height 5.5cm, diameter 61cm
 
This decorative pair of large ceramic chargers was produced in Spain around 1975 by Cearco, a maker celebrated for ornamental wall plates inspired by historic Mediterranean and Islamic design. Bold in scale and colour, these pieces were intended for display and make a striking visual statement.
 
Cearco ceramics originate from the Triana district of Seville, an area with a long and respected tradition of ceramic craftsmanship. From the mid to late 20th century, Cearco adapted Moorish and Andalusian influences into decorative wares for an international audience, with particular popularity during the 1970s. Their plates are known for hand-painted decoration and the use of gold detailing.
 
This pair is made from glazed ceramic and features Arabic inscriptions reading ‘Allah’ and ‘Mohammed’ reflecting an Orientalist aesthetic influenced by Islamic calligraphy. Rich colours, hand-painted surfaces marked ‘Pintado a Mano’, and broad 24-carat gold rims combine to create depth and visual impact.
 
The reverse of each plate bears the Cearco maker’s mark.
 
These chargers are notable for their size, decorative quality, and connection to Seville’s ceramic heritage, making them an appealing example of late 20th-century Spanish decorative art.
 
Artist/Maker: Cearco