Lot #25: Vintage Signed LAUNA Pottery Figurine Set – Indigenous American Chief & Inuit Fisherman

Vintage Signed LAUNA Pottery Figurine Set –Indigenous American Chief & Inuit Fisherman Up for auction is a beautiful, highly collectible set of two vintage mid-century studio art pottery figurines handcrafted by Launa in Uruguay. Known for their distinct cultural themes, expressive features, and textured finishes, Launa figurines are heavily sought after by collectors of South American pottery, mirroring the charm of classic Artesanía Rinconada pieces. Both figurines are fully authentic and feature the genuine, hand-incised "Launa" cursive signature on the bottom of their feet alongside original export foil label residue. The Chief: Features a beautifully detailed, multi-layered feathered war bonnet painted in striking red, white, blue, and black accents, contrasted by a textured maroon tunic with crossed arms. The Fisherman: Depicts a serene, smiling Inuit figure bundled in a heavy, textured winter parka with an oversized smooth white mitten, holding a freshly caught green fish. Dimensions Indigenous American Chief: 5.5" H x 3.0" W x 2.5" D Inuit Fisherman: 4.0" H x 3.0" W x 3.0" D Condition Report Excellent Vintage Condition: Both pieces show wonderfully preserved colors, clean matte finishes, and crisp textures. No chips, cracks, or structural repairs found on either figurine. Bases are clean with legible signatures and minor, expected vintage shelf wear/sticker residue on the bottom feet. Please inspect all high-resolution photos closely as they form part of the physical description. Launa refers to a prominent ceramic arts studio active in Uruguay during the 1960s and 1970s. Rather than a single individual, Launa operated as an artisan workshop, producing hand-formed and distinctively textured earthenware figurines for both regional art markets and international export. Artistic Style & Technique The Medium: The studio worked almost exclusively with local Uruguayan terracotta red clay. Pieces were left unglazed (matte) to emphasize the natural, earthy quality of the clay, with targeted slip-painting or cold-painted matte pigments applied to add color to specific details. Signature Texture: A hallmark of Launa pottery is the heavily incised, carved texture used to mimic natural materials—such as the individual notches on a feather headdress or the deep, coin-like fur trim carved into winter coats. Expressive Minimalism: The faces on Launa figurines generally feature minimalist, stylized facial features—such as deep slit-eyes and heavy downward or content expressions—giving them a soulful, mid-century modern primitive aesthetic Pickup category timeslot {A}