Turk 1755 - 1765

"Turk" is a colorful ceramic figure created by Ralph Wood the Elder, a prominent English potter, between 1755 and 1765. This small, glazed earthenware figurine, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art collection, showcases Wood's skill in depicting a figure in elaborate, exotic garb, likely inspired by the growing interest in Eastern cultures during the 18th century. The figure's vibrant green and brown glazes contribute to the overall whimsical charm of the piece, a testament to Wood's mastery of decorative techniques. This figure, a popular example of the "tobacco-pipe" genre, is a captivating snapshot of British ceramic artistry of the mid-18th century.