Gunda Pottery was founded in Melbourne in 1956 by Gundaris Lusis (1928–1996), a Latvian immigrant who arrived in Australia in 1949. Operating initially out of a suburban garage, the studio remained active until 1977. During its 21 years of production, Gunda Pottery became a significant contributor to the mid-20th-century Australian studio pottery movement, producing hundreds of slip-cast earthenware models for the local homeware, giftware, and tourist markets.
The studio's output was heavily influenced by post-war European ceramics, particularly the modernist aesthetics of Scandinavian and West German design. Pieces were widely recognised for their sleek, contemporary forms and geometric or abstract decoration. Lusis frequently experimented with different techniques, developing unique surface treatments such as a distinct 'volcano' texture and a signature matt blackware glaze that featured prominently across his work.
While Lusis worked largely independently, other ceramicists, such as Harry Whyte, occasionally created pieces under the Gunda label, including avant-garde souvenirware. Today, Gunda Pottery is actively sought after by collectors and institutions as an important representation of post-war modernist ceramic design in Australia.
THIS LISTING
Base Colour Caramel, with Black lava textured finish
Shade Colour Caramel, Orange, Brown, Off-White
Shade Material Hand-made in-house from premium vintage fabric. The design can be displayed a couple of different ways, as per the images.
Dimensions 91.5cm (36") tall, 25cm diameter.
Wiring Professionally rewired to meet Australian electrical standards, with a switch on the cable. Cable colour is black.
Bulb Fits a standard B22 bayonet light bulb.
Condition Excellent condition with no wear that we can see.
