Israel
Kibbutz Ein-Hashofet (Menashe Hills)

Ceramic
Mid-20th century
Length: 3.5 in; Width: 3 in; Depth: 3.25 in
Aerophones – Wind Instruments Proper – Edge-blown Flutes

This ocarina (vessel flute) is made from ceramic, formed in the shape of an owl with incised feather details on the wings, and shaped eyes, ears, beak, and feet. The eyes are painted a white color while the rest of the instrument is black, all covered with paint glaze.  There are three finger holes on one wing and a blow hole on the tail of the owl. The bottom of the instrument is signed by the artist both in Hebrew and English.

Jean Mayer (1924-2000) was an Israeli ceramic artist and sculptor, born in England. Her maiden name was Jean Davis Meir.  From 1945-1948 she studied art at Chelsea School of Art and in 1950-1951 she studied ceramics at Camberwell School of Art, London.  Jean married Alex Mayer, and together they immigrated to Israel in 1951 as part of the core group of new immigrants who joined Kibbutz Ein-Hashofet in the Menashe Hills.  Jean succeeded in composing a form of unique clay named “Jean” which became well known and was produced by leading clay manufacturers who also sold it to other ceramicists.  The ceramic works of Jean Mayer are on permanent display at the gallery in Kibbutz Ein Hashofet.  There is also a published catalogue available at the gallery:  Jean Mayer – Retrospective Fifty Years of Creative Work.

Resource: https://jeanmayer.co.il/en/about/