Introduction
Weller Pottery is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, intricate designs, and vibrant glazes. Among its remarkable creations, the Weller Pottery Flame Handled Vase Turkis is an artistic triumph.
This vase, with its distinctive maroon base and green overglaze, exemplifies the beauty and sophistication of early 20th-century American pottery. This article will explore this unique Weller piece’s history, design, manufacturing techniques, and significance while celebrating its enduring appeal to collectors and art enthusiasts.
The Legacy of Weller Pottery
Weller Pottery began in 1872 in Fultonham, Ohio, founded by Samuel Weller. Initially a tiny enterprise producing utilitarian stoneware, it quickly became one of America’s largest and most innovative pottery companies. By the early 20th century, Weller Pottery had gained recognition for its artistic and decorative ceramics, blending functionality with exquisite artistry.
The Weller Pottery Flame Handled Vase Turkis is a shining example of the company’s ability to innovate. The Turkis line showcases Weller’s mastery in glaze blending, form manipulation, and aesthetic balance, making it a coveted piece for collectors.
Turkis Line: A Blend of Innovation and Elegance
The Turkis line by Weller Pottery is celebrated for its harmonious blend of colors and textures. The Weller Pottery Flame Handled Vase Turkis features a maroon base with a green overglaze, creating a striking blended glaze effect. This deliberate interplay of colors gives the vase its unique visual appeal, with a gradient effect that shifts seamlessly from earthy warmth to verdant vibrancy.
The flame-like handles add to the vase’s dramatic flair. These sculptural elements, functional and decorative, resemble fire tongues that accentuate the vase’s overall aesthetic. The Turkis line embodies Weller’s commitment to pushing boundaries in ceramic artistry.
The Art of Glazing: The Secret Behind Turkis Beauty
The Weller Pottery Flame Handled Vase Turkis owes much of its allure to its intricate glazing technique. The maroon base is meticulously coated with a semi-translucent green glaze, resulting in a layered effect that enhances depth and texture. This technique, blended or drip glazing, was a hallmark of Weller Pottery.
The interaction of the two colors produces a natural, organic look reminiscent of moss-covered rocks or forest foliage. The unique finish ensures that no two vases in the Turkis line are identical, adding to their charm and value as collectible items.
Design Features of the Flame-Handled Vase
Distinctive Flame Handles
The bold handles are the most eye-catching feature of the Weller Pottery Flame Handled Vase Turkis. These handles are sculpted to resemble flames, curving elegantly upward from the vase’s body. The dynamic design creates a sense of movement and energy, making the piece visually captivating even from a distance.
Balanced Form and Proportions
The vase’s form is a perfect example of balance and proportion. Its gently flared rim, rounded body, and pedestal base harmonize harmoniously to create a timeless silhouette. The flame handles further accentuate the piece, drawing the viewer’s eye upward and enhancing its overall visual impact.
Manufacturing Techniques: A Testament to Craftsmanship
Creating the Weller Pottery Flame Handled Vase Turkis required high skill and precision. The process began with hand-molding the clay to achieve the desired shape and incorporating the sculptural flame handles. Once the vase was formed, it was meticulously dried to prevent warping or cracking.
The glazing stage was particularly crucial. Artisans applied the maroon base layer, followed by the green overglaze. The vase was fired at a carefully controlled temperature to achieve the desired glaze effects. This labor-intensive process reflects Weller’s dedication to quality and artistry.
Historical Context and Popularity
The Weller Pottery flame-handled vase Turkis emerged during a golden age for American art pottery, spanning the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This period saw a surge in demand for decorative ceramics that blended utility with artistic expression. Weller’s Turkis line captured this zeitgeist perfectly, offering functional and visually stunning pieces.
Collectors and art lovers of the time prized the flame-handled vase for its bold design and intricate glaze work. Today, it remains a sought-after piece among enthusiasts of vintage pottery.
Collecting the Weller Pottery Flame-Handled Vase Turkis
Rarity and Value
The Weller Pottery Flame Handled Vase Turkis is considered a rare and valuable collector’s item. Its unique design, combined with its limited production, makes it a prized addition to any collection of vintage American pottery. The vase’s value depends on factors such as condition, provenance, and the clarity of its glaze.
Identifying Authentic Pieces
Authentic Weller Turkis vases are marked with the company’s signature, often incised or stamped on the base. Collectors should also look for the characteristic blended glaze effect and the distinctive flame handles when identifying genuine pieces.
Caring for Your Weller Pottery
Preserving the beauty of your Weller Pottery flame-handled vase Turkis requires careful handling and maintenance. Here are some suggestions to ensure its longevity:
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the glaze colors to fade over time.
- Clean Gently: Clean the vase with a soft cloth or sponge and mild soap. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads that could damage the glaze.
- Handle with Care: The flame handles are delicate and can break if mishandled. Always lift the vase by its base.
- Display Thoughtfully: Place the vase on a stable surface away from high-traffic areas to minimize the risk of accidental damage.
The Enduring Appeal of Weller Pottery
The Weller Pottery Flame Handled Vase Turkis is more than just a decorative object; it is a piece of history that reflects the ingenuity and artistry of its creators. Its timeless design and vibrant glaze make it a focal point in any setting, whether displayed in a home, gallery, or museum.
Conclusion: A Testament to American Artistry
The Weller Pottery Flame Handled Vase Turkis is a testament to the golden age of American art pottery. Its distinctive design, masterful glaze work, and historical significance make it a cherished artifact that continues to captivate collectors and art lovers alike. Whether you are an experienced collector or a newcomer to vintage pottery, the Turkis vase is worth admiring and preserving for future generations.
Weller Pottery’s legacy lives on through its exquisite creations, and the flame-handled vase Turkis is a shining example of the brand’s commitment to artistry and innovation.