Stanisław PASTUSZKIEWICZ (1888–1962), The Pensive Christ, 1962

clay; 19.5 cm
Marked on the reverse: Iłża / 1962 / Poland / St. Pastuszkiewicz
Condition: a small chip on the back.

Stanisław PASTUSZKIEWICZ (1888–1962)—he began making his first pieces while still in school, seeking to imitate an apprentice working for his father. Initially, these were animal figurines and zoomorphic whistles. After finishing school, he began assisting his father (as a journeyman) in the workshop, and in 1927 he received his master potter’s diploma. In 1932, he was elected guild master of the pottery guild in Iłża. His works were frequently exhibited and awarded at national and international folk art exhibitions. He became the first president of the Folk and Artistic Industry Cooperative in Iłża, and later its honorary president. He was awarded the Cross of Merit three times (Bronze, Silver, and Gold).
He was the last chairman of the guild—that is, the guild master—which existed from the 14th century until 1937. He was known as the doyen of Iłża pottery.