Vintage Relpo 5959 Sweater Pipe Planter MCM Ceramic Smoking Pipe Vase Japan

A quirky mid-century find for the pipe collector or kitsch lover! This ceramic planter is molded to look like a chunky knit sweater with an attached briar-style smoking pipe resting against it. Deep olive-green textured glaze with a drippy dark striping effect and a cream cable-knit collar band; the pipe bowl and stem are glazed in warm burnt orange and black.  Marked on the underside Relpo 5959, with a partial gold foil Relpo label still present. Relpo (Reliable Glassware & Pottery Co., Chicago) imported these novelty ceramics from Japan in the 1950s–60s — this sweater-and-pipe design turns up in vintage collections but isn't easy to find in this clean of condition.  Measures 5.75 tall, 4 square base.  Good vintage condition — no chips or cracks, light wear consistent with age.  Great as a small succulent planter, or displayed as-is for a mid-century or tobacciana-themed shelf. A fun conversation piece for any retro, MCM, or pipe/smoking memorabilia collection.