Untitled 1845 - 1855

This haunting face vessel was formed from alkaline-glazed stoneware in the Edgefield District of South Carolina, likely between 1840 and 1880, by an unrecorded African American potter. During this period, enslaved people were forced to produce pottery, imbuing everyday objects with a profound sense of their identity. Face vessels are a testament to the resilience of African cultural traditions under the brutal conditions of slavery. The gnarled features, the bulging eyes, and the open mouth can be interpreted as an expression of suffering, a form of protest, or perhaps a spiritual marker. These vessels challenge the traditional narratives of American decorative arts, offering an alternative perspective on history. They invite us to reflect on the complex relationship between art, labor, and identity, particularly within the context of slavery. The act of looking becomes a recognition of the humanity and creativity of those whose stories have been historically marginalized.