The Man in the Bowler Hat Ceramic Vase
All our vases are made to order and usually take up to 4 weeks to make and send it to you.
You may choose the colors and customize the design on the vase for a small additional fee. Just choose this option in Customization.
Magritte Collection
A Dynamic Surrealist Vase with a Flying Bird
The Man in the Bowler Hat Ceramic Vase from the Magritte Collection by Leti Ceramics is a handmade sculptural vase inspired by René Magritte’s enigmatic portrait of a formally dressed man whose face is crossed by a bird in flight.
The glossy black suit and bowler hat create a restrained, symmetrical figure, while the white bird introduces movement, freedom and visual tension. Its outstretched wings extend beyond the outline of the portrait, turning the vase into a dynamic three-dimensional composition.
Hand-formed in semi-porcelain and finished by hand, the piece works as both a functional vase and a collectible ceramic art object.
Form & Dynamic Silhouette
The figure’s still, upright pose contrasts with the movement of the bird flying across his face. From the front, the extended wings dominate the composition. From the side, the facial profile and individually modelled feathers become more visible.
This relationship between concealment and movement gives the piece its surrealist character. The bird may suggest freedom, transformation or a fleeting thought, while the hidden face leaves the scene open to interpretation.
Natural differences in form and glaze make every vase unique.
Material & Sculptural Detail
The vase is crafted from high-fired semi-porcelain, providing a strong structure and refined surface. The portrait, hat and bird are shaped by hand, with particular attention given to the layered feathers and extended wings.
Glossy black glaze creates a graphic contrast with the white shirt and pale bird, while the warm ochre tie introduces a restrained colour accent.
Designed for Graphic Interiors
This sculptural ceramic vase suits contemporary, minimalist, monochrome and gallery-inspired spaces. It can be placed on a console, shelf, sideboard or dining table.
Against a bright background, the black-and-white silhouette becomes especially graphic. In a neutral setting, the wings and glossy surfaces create depth through light and shadow.
Limited Studio Production
Each Man in the Bowler Hat Ceramic Vase is made to order. Production may take up to four weeks due to the detailed modelling and multi-stage firing process.
Materials & Care
— High-fired semi-porcelain
— Hand-modelled bird and feather details
— Hand-applied underglaze painting
— Studio glaze finish
— Suitable for water unless specified otherwise
— Clean gently with a soft damp cloth
— Handle the extended wings with particular care
— Avoid abrasive cleaners and harsh scrubbing
Each vase is carefully packaged to protect its projecting sculptural details during international delivery.