Viktor Schreckengost

Viktor Schreckengost is one of the most influential and prolific artists/designers in America. His work spans over eight decades and includes a multitude of mediums, including ceramics, painting, stage design, graphics, and industrial design. His most well known work includes the Jazz Bowl, the first Mercury bicycle, and the first cab-over-engine truck. Examples of his designs and graphics in the home can be seen in dinnerware, lawn furniture, lighting fixtures, and baby walkers.

Schreckengost, who was awarded the Binns Medal by the NYSCC at Alfred University in 1938, will celebrate his 100th birthday on June 26. In honor of this occasion, the Viktor Schreckengost Foundation in Cleveland, Ohio has organized The Viktor Schreckengost National Centennial Celebration. One hundred museums and galleries across the United States will display his work for 100 days leading up to his birthday, from March 18 to June 26, 2006.

Participating in this celebration, the Schein International Museum of Ceramic Art will feature two plates and two bowls from American Limoges in the Manhattan, Flower Shop pattern. In addition, the American Girl Collection has generously lent us their doll “Molly” with her miniature replicas of Schreckengost’s dinnerware featuring the same pattern. These are displayed in a hallway case outside the Museum. For more information on Viktor and this celebration, you can visit the Viktor Schreckengost Foundation’s website.

American Limoges, Manhattan, Flower Shop, dinner plate, 1935, diam. 9” gift of Gerald Eggert, 2000.149