I purchased this ceramic tile from the Ojai Valley Museum in 2016. It is a sculpted piece by renowned ceramists Otto & Vivika Heino, signed by Otto and dated 1996. The tile features a geranium leaf motif, finished in a rich brown glaze.
03 April 2026
Description

Ceramic square tile crafted by renowned ceramists Otto & Vivika Heino, dated 1996. The piece is signed by Otto along the outer edge. It features a distinctive geranium leaf motif, finished in a rich brown glaze.

Dimensions

9 1/2 inches x 9 1/2

Acquired from
Auction House
For sale
Yes
Answered within 1 day
By David U.
Apr 05, 13:52 UTC
Fair Market Value
$400 - $800 USD
Insurance Value $0 USD
What does this mean?

Hello, this item is a studio ceramic tile by Otto and Vivika Heino, dated 1996 and signed by Otto Heino along the edge, as visible in the images. The Heinós are well documented figures in American studio ceramics, active throughout the second half of the twentieth century, known for their refined stoneware and porcelain vessels as well as limited sculptural works. While they are most recognized for thrown forms, they also produced decorative and architectural pieces, including tiles, often featuring natural motifs. The geranium leaf design seen here, combined with the rich iron brown glaze and subtle tonal variation, aligns with their aesthetic language rooted in organic simplicity and surface depth. The execution is consistent with authentic workshop production from their California studio, and the presence of a clear signature and date supports attribution.

From a market perspective, ceramic tiles by Otto and Vivika Heino are less common than their vessels but remain collectible, especially when signed and in good condition. Value depends on size, design, and clarity of signature. Comparable works typically trade in a modest but stable segment of the studio ceramics market. Based on the dimensions, condition, and confirmed authorship, a fair market value for this piece would reasonably fall between $400 and $800 USD.

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