Agateware Potpourri Vessel

Agateware, developed in 18th-century England at potteries like those of Josiah Wedgwood, is a ceramic technique in which differently colored clays are marbled together to imitate the natural patterns of agate stone. Made by blending differently colored clays together, the combined clays are then sliced, twisted, or thrown, so the colors marble through the body before the piece is shaped and fired. This extremely rare English potpourri vessel is a notable example, which was described and illustrated in Jonathan Rickard’s, Mocha and Related Dipped Wares 1770-1939. The speckled surface is composed of tiny bits of colored clay, sprinkled onto a wet surface and then turned smooth on a lathe. The sides are decorated with speckled inlaid agate and checkered rouletting, with applied sprigged swags and bows. Perfect for holding dried flowers and fruits, spices and oils, the perforated lid allows for the scent to diffuse throughout the home.

Year: c 1790

Material: Clay

Dimensions: Ø 4 ½ x H 8 ¼ in