Vase (one of a pair) 1750 - 1799

This vase, one of a pair, was made by Anthoni Pennis in tin-glazed earthenware. The first thing to notice is the material. Earthenware is common, available. What makes it special here is the tin glaze – the white coating allows for painting. But note: the decoration is all in one color. This is not porcelain, with its intricate layering of enamel. Instead, it’s a bold, broad design, well-suited to the popular market. The artist has used a limited palette to achieve a striking visual effect. The floral motif itself has significance; such designs were enormously popular in the global trading networks of the period. Artisans from around the world decorated functional wares with imagery of growth and nature. Ultimately, this vase speaks to the power of pottery as a medium, in bringing art and design into everyday life.