Long-Necked Vase c. 20th century

This 'Long-Necked Vase' was made by Barambo, and I’m imagining it was a slow process of coiling and shaping, each layer building on the last. The earthy tones suggest a direct connection to the earth, the very material from which it was formed. Run your eyes over the surface: it's not smooth or glazed, but textured with tiny repeated impressions. This almost quilt-like effect covers the round body of the vase, contrasting with the long, ringed neck. See how the artist has created patterns with these marks? It's like a language etched into the clay. Those swirling, eye-like motifs draw me in, they're so suggestive. It reminds me of the tactile quality of Giacometti's sculptures, or some of the early ceramics of Lucie Rie. In the end, this vase is a reminder that art is a conversation across time and cultures, an ongoing exploration of form and meaning.