The Piece

1978 Pelzman Designer Ceramic Carnival Masks – Set of Three

This striking set of three ceramic masks was created as part of the Pelzman designer mask series, produced in 1978 for Vandor Designs and the San Francisco-based studio About Face – A Division of Clay Art.

Each mask features a glossy ceramic surface with bold theatrical styling inspired by the tradition of carnival and commedia dell’arte performance masks. Expressive facial features, stylized makeup motifs, and ribbon ties give the masks the dramatic presence associated with masquerade costume design.

The three masks each carry distinct personalities. One features the romantic Pierrot-style face with heart-shaped cheek accents and dramatic eye detailing, while the others incorporate floral motifs and delicate painted elements. Their sculpted ceramic forms are finished with high-gloss glazing and vibrant hand-applied color.

Interior labels identify the designer as Pelzman, with markings referencing 1978 production and the About Face Clay Art division in San Francisco, alongside Vandor’s Japanese manufacturing mark.

Together, the set represents a fascinating moment in late-1970s decorative art when theatrical design, ceramics, and pop culture intersected in home décor.

Historical Context

During the 1970s, decorative wall masks became a popular art object within both theatrical and contemporary interior design. Inspired by Venetian carnival traditions and commedia dell’arte characters, designers began producing ceramic and porcelain masks intended specifically for wall display.

The Pelzman mask series, produced for Vandor Designs, reflected this trend. Vandor collaborated with artists and designers to produce collectible décor pieces that blended modern design with theatrical influences.

Manufacturing often occurred in Japan during this period, where ceramic production was highly refined and cost-effective, while creative direction and design came from American studios such as About Face – Clay Art in San Francisco.

Today these masks are appreciated as distinctive examples of 1970s theatrical décor and designer ceramics, combining sculptural form with expressive painted detail.

Product Details

Type: Decorative ceramic wall masks
Designer: Pelzman
Producer: Vandor Designs
Division: About Face – Clay Art

Date: 1978

Manufacture:
• Designed in San Francisco, California
• Produced in Japan

Materials
• Glazed ceramic masks
• Hand-painted decorative details
• Ribbon ties for hanging

Design Features

• Pierrot / carnival mask styling
• Gloss ceramic finish
• Expressive theatrical makeup motifs
• Distinct individual character designs

Approximate Size

Height: ~7–9 inches each
Width: ~5–6 inches

Condition

Good vintage condition.

• Minor surface wear consistent with age
• Light scuffing on interior surfaces
• Original labels present on masks
• Ribbons intact

No structural cracks observed.

Why It Belongs in Your Home

Large decorative masks like these bring sculptural personality to a space. Whether arranged as a gallery grouping or displayed individually, they add a theatrical element that works beautifully in eclectic interiors.

Ideal for:

• gallery wall displays
• theatrical or artistic interiors
• collectors of vintage designer décor
• fans of Venetian carnival aesthetics

Displayed together, the three masks create a dramatic visual composition.

From Viridian Eclection

At Viridian Eclection, we curate objects that sit at the intersection of art, design, and cultural storytelling. Pieces like this capture the spirit of theatrical design and the creativity of late-20th-century decorative arts.