Vaas met geometrisch ornament in blauw en geel c. 1910

This vase, by Th. Verstraaten, is made of earthenware, decorated with geometric patterns in blue and yellow. The vase is made by shaping malleable clay. It is then fired, painted with geometric patterns and glazed, a treatment that gives it a smooth surface. These processes have imbued the artwork with social and cultural significance. The techniques, tools, and skilled traditions engaged with here belong to a history of creative practices, alongside that of craft and fine arts. With its rounded shape and symmetrical geometric patterns, the vase balances functionality with aesthetics. The painted decorations, likely applied by hand, add a layer of craftsmanship to what could otherwise be a purely utilitarian object. The amount of work involved in the production process elevates the vase beyond mere functionality. Paying attention to the materials, making, and context enhances our comprehension of the artwork's meaning, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.