Mid-Century Brutalist Brass Sailing Ship Sculpture on Onyx Base
Jeré (Attributed to C. Jeré) · Art & Decor > Sculptures
Era / Decade
1970s (Late 1960s to Mid 1970s style)
Material
Brass/Copper sheets for the sails, wire rigging, mounted on a natural white and tan onyx or marble base.
Condition
Very Good. The metal shows natural patina and some minor oxidation/spotting consistent with age. No visible missing rigging lines or structural damage to the sails.
Demand Level
Strong. Mid-Century Modern decor, specifically brass metalwork and brutalism, remains a top trend for interior designers and collectors.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$150.00 (Low) - $275.00 (Mid) - $450.00 (High)
Estimated Retail Value
$450.00 - $600.00 (comparable new high-end sculptural decor)
Comparable Sales
Unsigned similar brass ships sell for $125-$200 on eBay. Authenticated and signed C. Jeré ships can exceed $500 depending on size and complexity.
Description
Stunning vintage brutalist-style brass clipper ship sculpture featuring multiple curved metal sails and thin wire rigging. The ship is securely mounted to a heavy, polished natural onyx stone base. This piece exemplifies the Mid-Century Modern nautical aesthetic popularized by Curtis Jeré, featuring a warm golden hue and architectural complexity.
Key Features
Highly collectible Mid-Century Modern/Brutalist style; natural onyx base adds significant weight and value; large scale sculptural presence; nautical theme remains a timeless decor staple.
Authenticity Indicators
Style and construction are consistent with Artisan House (C. Jeré) pieces. Look for a signature or date etched into the stone or a metal tag. Even if unsigned, the design is highly representative of the period. Confidence: Medium-High.
Flaws to Note
Natural tarnish and 'pitting' on the brass sails (standard for age); some dust in the tight crevices of the rigging; possible minor scuffs on the stone base.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (Best for vintage aesthetic), eBay (Best for reach), or Chairish/1stDibs (if confirmed as an authentic Curtis Jeré). Local Facebook Marketplace is good for avoiding shipping risks.
Selling Tips
Do not polish away the patina, as collectors often prefer the vintage 'crust'. Use keywords like 'MCM', 'Brutalist', 'Nautical', and 'Curtis Jere style'. This item is heavy and fragile; double-box for shipping and use plenty of bubble wrap around the rigging.