Art Deco Australiana Koala Wall Pocket Vase (Rare, c.1930s–40s)

A truly exceptional piece of early Australian pottery, this rare Art Deco koala wall pocket vase dates to the late 1930s–early 1940s and features a deep, mottled green glaze strongly reminiscent of SylvaC and early Pates production.

Koala wall pockets were produced in relatively small numbers, and many did not survive the decades. This sculpt, with its beautifully modelled face and flowing Art Deco lines, is one of the harder-to-find forms, and at present no identical examples are listed on eBay Australia, highlighting its scarcity.

The glaze is superb: layered greens with subtle tonal shifts, crisp edging, and excellent overall coverage. Condition is outstanding for its age, with no cracks, no repairs, and only the tiniest spot of colour loss to the upper back, likely a production quirk rather than wear.

A standout piece for serious collectors of Australiana, Art Deco ceramics, or early Australian studio and commercial pottery.

Details

• Australian pottery, c.1930s–40s
• Rare koala wall pocket form
• Rich mottled Art Deco green glaze
• Beautifully modelled koala figure with strong detail
• Excellent vintage condition
• No cracks, no structural issues
• Tiny spot of colour variation at rear top (likely as made)
• Displays exquisitely

💭 Deb’s Note:

These early koala wall pockets are such treasures — sculptural, charming, and undeniably Australian. With so few surviving in this condition, pieces like this rarely come through the shop.