Vase 1902

Artus Van Briggle made this vase, sometime around the turn of the century, out of glazed earthenware. The approach is subtractive and tactile. You can see the artist manipulating and working the clay, it's not a concealed process. I'm really drawn to the texture of the vase, it’s got this amazing, almost velvety matte finish, with subtle gradations of dark green and a hint of iridescence that catches the light. The surface feels soft and yielding. Running my eyes along the body of the vase, you can see the way those stylized, curving leaves emerge from the clay, like they’re growing right out of the form. I think it is so cool when something is both a functional object and a decorative form at the same time! It reminds me a bit of some of the art nouveau glasswork of Emile Galle. But with a kind of rustic, handmade feel. It’s a reminder that art is always in conversation. What do you think, will this influence you?