Vase 1894 - 1903

This vase was made by George Ohr, sometime between the late 19th and early 20th century. Ohr, working in Mississippi, became known as the "Mad Potter of Biloxi" for his wildly eccentric and innovative ceramics. This vase exemplifies his unique approach. Notice how he manipulated the clay, twisting and folding it in ways that defied conventional pottery practices of the time. Ohr challenged the established artistic institutions. He embraced imperfection and spontaneity, contrasting the highly refined, mass-produced ceramics that were becoming increasingly popular due to industrialization. He deliberately disrupted the traditional boundaries between art and craft, questioning the rigid hierarchy that often marginalized ceramic art. To fully understand Ohr's work, research into the Arts and Crafts movement is essential. Consider the cultural context of the American South during this period and how its history of slavery and racial inequality may have informed his iconoclastic approach. By exploring these avenues, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complex social and artistic landscape in which Ohr operated.