Ovoid covered jar with a continuous water landscape c. 1660 - 1680

This covered jar, of unknown date and origin, is made of faience, a tin-glazed earthenware. The surface decoration depicts a continuous water landscape. Faience is often associated with craft traditions, and this piece is no exception. The process begins with shaping the clay and firing it, before applying the tin-based glaze. It is then fired again to fuse the glaze with the body, resulting in a bright white surface. The delicate landscape is hand-painted onto this surface, requiring a skilled artist to capture the scene. The use of faience speaks to the rich history of ceramic production, connecting this jar to wider social issues of labor, trade, and consumption. It reflects the cultural exchanges and artistic traditions that have shaped our material world. So when you look at this jar, consider the labour, skill, and traditions that have shaped its creation.