Vase 1879 - 1892

This vase was produced by the Chelsea Keramic Art Works, a company founded in 1872, using glazed ceramic. This involved shaping the clay, probably on a wheel, then firing it at high temperature. The result is this eye-catching yellow color. But how was this achieved? Well, the glaze contains metallic oxides, which react in the heat to create that unique tone. This shows the deep knowledge of chemistry that ceramicists need. The vase's design, with its multiple spouts, isn’t purely decorative. It shows a deep understanding of material behavior, addressing inherent qualities like texture, weight, and form. Chelsea Keramic Art Works like these reflect changing attitudes towards labor, politics, and consumption. The firm aimed to elevate the status of ceramics in America, positioning them as more than just functional items. Ultimately, looking at the materials, how this vase was made, and its original context gives us a much deeper understanding of its meaning, while questioning some long-held assumptions about art versus craft.