Vase c. 18th century

This vase was made by an anonymous maker, using ceramic and painted with cobalt oxide. The vase, with its subtle blue-grey color palette, embodies both refinement and practicality. The form is wheel-thrown, and then decorated with a freely brushed design. The material and processes used in creating this vase speak volumes about its cultural significance. Ceramic production involves labor-intensive steps, from sourcing and preparing the clay, throwing it on the wheel, applying the decoration, glazing, and firing it in a kiln. The cobalt used for the decoration would have been a precious import. All of this required skilled hands, specialized knowledge, and collective effort. The production process would have been very complex and a team effort. Considering the materials, making, and context allows us to appreciate the full meaning of this object and challenges traditional notions of art.