Set of 8 Hand-Painted Plates by Robert Picault — Vallauris, France, c.1950s

A striking and graphic set of eight ceramic plates by Robert Picault (1919–2000), the celebrated French ceramist who helped shape the postwar Vallauris pottery movement alongside close friend and studio-mate Pablo Picasso.

Each plate is hand-decorated in Picault’s signature turquoise, jade, and cobalt palette—an instantly recognizable geometric style characterized by grids, spirals, and sunburst motifs. The set includes four dinner plates (9.5” diameter) and four side plates (7.5” diameter), all signed “RP Vallauris” to the reverse.

Picault studied at the École des Arts Appliqués in Paris before moving to Vallauris, where he co-founded the famed Atelier Madoura with Suzanne and Georges Ramié. It was there that he collaborated and shared techniques with Picasso, each artist influencing the other’s approach to form and glazing. Picault’s work is celebrated for its balance of bold modernist design and traditional Mediterranean craftsmanship—functional pieces elevated to sculptural art.

This complete matched set is a particularly fine example of his mid-century output—ideal for display or use, bringing an unmistakable Riviera charm to any table or wall.

Details

• Artist: Robert Picault (French, 1919–2000)
• Origin: Vallauris, France
• Date: c.1950s
• Medium: Glazed earthenware, hand-painted
• Dimensions:
  • Dinner plates: 9.5” diameter (4 pieces)
  • Side plates: 7.5” diameter (4 pieces)
• Markings: Signed “RP Vallauris” to underside
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition with minor glaze irregularities typical of handmade work
• Provenance: Private collection