Hilbert Boxem stoneware abstract sculpture Netherlands 1977

This unique abstract stoneware sculpture, crafted by Hilbert Boxem in his Landsmeer studio in 1977, stands out for its monumental size, a rarity in the artist’s oeuvre where most of his known pieces are considerably smaller. This large-scale work is an intriguing example of Boxem’s approach to abstract ceramic art, reflecting his exploration of form and material without any utilitarian function.

Boxem, a Dutch ceramist known for his minimalist and abstract objects, often experimented with variations on simple, basic forms. His use of earthy pigments over bright colors creates a natural, organic aesthetic, making this sculpture a perfect fit for any modern home or interior. The piece shares its style with a smaller version housed in the collection of the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen in Rotterdam, a testament to its artistic value. His works are also part of prominent collections at institutions such as the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam and the Centraal Museum in Utrecht, underscoring his significance in the Dutch design movement.

This sculpture is in excellent condition, free from chips or cracks, and is signed and dated on the bottom, enhancing its authenticity and collectability. A striking and impressive piece, it reflects Boxem’s unique artistic vision and remains a rare find due to the limited number of works he produced. As a largely underrated artist, this sculpture represents a valuable opportunity to acquire a piece by a ceramist whose work is gaining recognition for its depth and distinctiveness.

Hilbert Boxem, born in 1939 in Alkmaar, was a highly skilled ceramic artist known for his abstract, non-functional forms, particularly spheres. His early work, starting in 1967, used stoneware clay, and he later switched to red-firing clay in 1995. Boxem aimed for a harmonious balance of form, material, and color, often using earthy tones like brown and beige. The piece “Dubbelvorm” (Double Form) from the early 1970s reflects his style of contrasting and complementing separate forms. After moving from Landsmeer to Franeker in 1975, he continued to innovate, combining wheel-thrown shapes with thin clay slabs and adding unique elements like tubes and peepholes. Boxem also taught ceramics at the Minerva Academy in Groningen and passed away in 2001 in Franeker.