Large Vintage Italian Ceramic Cat 55cm Tall Retro Kitsch 1960s 70s Hand Painted

Make a bold statement with this fabulous and very large vintage ceramic cat figurine, or ‘gatto’, hailing straight from Italy circa the 1960s/1970s! This eye-catching piece embodies the fun and kitsch style of the era, possibly in the style of well-known makers like Mancioli or from the Deruta pottery region, featuring an elongated neck, expressive face, and a distinctively painted tail. Its impressive size ensures it will be a conversation starter wherever you choose to display it.

The cat is finished in a glossy white glaze and hand-painted with vibrant pink, lavender, and purple flowers and green scrolling vines climbing up its body and neck. Its striking green eyes and subtly detailed face add to its unique charm. The base is marked “6868/C ITALY H.O”.

This is a fantastic piece for collectors of vintage Italian ceramics (potentially Deruta or Mancioli style), retro homewares, or anyone looking for a unique and memorable decorative item.

Features:

• Authentic vintage item from the 1960s/1970s
• Made in Italy (marked on base)
• Very large, statement size
• Kitsch, retro long-neck cat (‘gatto’) design
• Hand-painted floral decoration (pink/lavender/purple flowers, green leaves) on a white glaze
• Distinctive curved tail with pink and black striped pattern
• Style possibly reminiscent of Mancioli or Deruta pottery (Base marked “6868/C ITALY H.O” – specific maker unidentified)
• Glossy ceramic finish

Measurements (Approximate):

• Height: 55 cm (approx. 21.7 inches)
• Width: 17 cm (approx. 6.7 inches)
• Depth: 20 cm (approx. 7.9 inches)

Condition: Presented in good vintage condition overall, consistent with its age and previous life. There is some light general wear and occasional light surface scratches. The glaze exhibits some crazing (a network of fine cracks in the glaze, common in vintage ceramics), which adds to its authentic character. Please note: There is a small chip to the front of one paw and a very small flake chip to the glaze on the edge of the other paw (please see photos). Despite these minor imperfections, the cat displays beautifully and retains its vibrant colours.

Styling Ideas: This retro cat is incredibly versatile! Place it on a sideboard or console table in your hallway to greet guests, nestle it beside a fireplace hearth (away from direct heat), or let it stand proudly on the floor in a living room or study corner. It would perfectly complement Mid-Century Modern, Eclectic, Maximalist, Kitsch, or Boho interiors. Imagine it beside a collection of houseplants or as a colourful counterpoint in a more minimalist space.

Disclaimer: Please note that colours may vary slightly depending on your monitor settings and the lighting conditions in which the photos were taken and viewed.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or would like to see more pictures.

Please view all photos as they form part of the description. 

Local collection welcome by appointment.