Vase 1904

This vase was made by the Van Briggle Pottery Company at the beginning of the 20th century. It’s got this cool, matte green glaze that looks like it was poured on and then allowed to find its own level. It's the kind of surface that invites you to touch it, even though you know you probably shouldn't! I love how the floral design isn’t just painted on but is literally raised from the surface, like the vase itself is blossoming. There’s something really tactile about the way the leaves and buds push outwards, creating shadows and highlights that shift as you move around it. And the color! That muted, earthy green is so calming, so organic. It’s the kind of green that makes you think of mossy forests and damp earth. It makes me think of the Arts and Crafts movement, with its emphasis on handmade quality and natural forms. It also reminds me of some of the ceramics of Lucie Rie, who also had this amazing ability to make clay feel both ancient and totally modern at the same time. It's definitely part of a long, ongoing conversation about art and nature, form and function.