Design for Four Vases and a Teapot 1765 - 1790

This anonymous drawing titled "Design for Four Vases and a Teapot" from the 18th century shows five preliminary designs for ceramic ware in pencil. It is likely that the artist was a potter or designer who was developing forms for production. The design for the tea pot is the most detailed, with the artist carefully rendering its spout and handle. The overall style of the objects is classical, with a strong emphasis on simple, elegant forms. This drawing, which is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, offers a rare glimpse into the creative process of 18th century ceramic design.