Slender Vase with Daffodils in Profile

Design Date
c. 1902

Designer
William H. Grueby (1867–1925, American) & George Prentiss Kendrick (1850–1919, American)

Manufacturer
Grueby Faience Company (1894–1919), Boston, MA

Media
ceramic

Dimensions
12 3/4 x 6 1/2 x 6 1/2 inches

The American art pottery of Grueby Faience Co. is characterized by the matte glaze, most often green, developed by founder William Grueby, as well as hand-incised botanical motifs such as the daffodils on this vase, designed by George Prentiss Kendrick. The botanical motifs of Grueby pottery were derived from French Art Nouveau but were simplified compared to the French variation’s swirling lines. The flatness of patterns was also influenced by Japanese art. Adapting Japanese motifs to western design is known as Japonism, and was very common in late nineteenth century art and design. The crackled texture of the glaze is referred to as "elephant skin." Grueby’s matte pottery was very popular and led to a rash of cheaper imitators, eventually forcing the art pottery division of Grueby Faience Co. to close in 1910.

ON VIEW in Arts & Crafts Gallery 3

Markings
Impressed "GRUEBY POTTERY" circular mark and initialed "E" on bottom

Credit Line
Collection Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art

Accession Number
1999.0024