GILBERT VALENTIN (1928-2000) - THE ARCHANGELS Two free-form bowls. Polychrome glazed ceramic; one bowl in black granite and cracked orange, the other in black granite, brilliant blue and cracked yellow. Each bowl is marked with the workshop initials below the base. Lengths: 14cm - 12.5cm GILBERT VALENTIN (1928-2000) - LES ARCHANGES VALLAURIS After initial experience as a wrought-iron worker, Gilbert Valentin began working with ceramics in 1946, training in Dieulefit, Vierzon and then at the Lunéville faience factory. Drawn to Vallauris, he set up his "Les Archanges" workshop there. His style asserts itself and spreads, notably through exhibitions in France and abroad. His ceramics are characterized by bold, often biomorphic volumes and brightly colored decorations on matte granite backgrounds. In 1962, the studio became multidisciplinary, integrating painting, sculpture, lithography and weaving. His work then evolved into "meta-sculptures" combining ceramics and iron, his preferred mediums.