Tall vase 1887 - 1899

Christopher Dresser crafted this striking tall vase, standing nearly 20 inches high, using glazed earthenware. The vase is a study in contrasts, both in form and color. The spherical base, adorned with vertical striations of deep brown against a vibrant turquoise, gives way to a cylindrical neck, flanked by squared handles. The color palette, oscillating between dark earth tones and luminous blues, creates a visual tension that is both grounding and uplifting. Dresser's design reflects the broader artistic and philosophical concerns of his time, particularly the synthesis of functionality with aesthetic appeal. The combination of geometric forms and organic coloration destabilizes traditional notions of beauty, challenging fixed meanings associated with decorative arts. The vase functions not just as a vessel but as a discourse on form, utility, and the evolving relationship between art and industry.