Master Potter: Ken Collins - Studio Pottery Pod Vase

Master Potter: Ken Collins - Studio Pottery Pod Vase

R 1,650.00
R 1,650.00
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Master Potter: Ken Collins - Studio Pottery Pod Vase
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Master Potter: Ken Collins - Studio Pottery Pod Vase

Master Potter: Ken Collins - Studio Pottery Pod Vase

Vintage Ken Collins mid-century wheel-thrown geometric studio ceramic pod vase — made in South Africa, 1970s–1980s.

A heavy, substantial work of art with significant physical presence. A masterclass in mid-century geometric form — this striking studio ceramic pod or squat moon jar vase showcases incredible wheel-thrown symmetry. Features a complex multi-layered reduction glaze: rich high-gloss obsidian black at the collar cascading down the broad shoulders into a dense white and charcoal oil-spot crystalline finish that mimics organic volcanic stone. Its dramatic low-slung profile bridges rugged Brutalist textures with sleek Japandi minimalism. The wide 13cm mouth supports thick architectural branches, structured florals, or stands alone as a powerful graphic centrepiece.
More Details
  • Complex multi-layered reduction firing — iron-rich slips creating dramatic obsidian-to-oil-spot cascading effect.
  • Tenmoku glaze variant — rooted in ancient East Asian pottery, popularised by the mid-century Anglo-Oriental studio movement.
  • Unmarked raw unglazed foot ring with heavy pooled slip on base — classic hallmark of an independent SA master studio vessel.
  • Wide 13cm mouth opening — ideal for architectural branches, structured florals, or as a standalone centrepiece.
  • Good vintage condition — no chips, cracks, or repairs. Fine age-related crazing adds authentic vintage character.
Did you Know?

Tenmoku (also spelled Temmoku) is one of the most revered glaze traditions in East Asian ceramics, originating in Song Dynasty China and later adopted by Japanese potters for the tea ceremony. The dramatic black-to-oil-spot effect is achieved through precise control of iron oxide content and reduction atmosphere in the kiln — a technically demanding process where small variations in temperature or oxygen produce wildly different results. The mid-century Anglo-Oriental studio pottery movement, championed by Bernard Leach and Shoji Hamada, brought Tenmoku techniques to Western and South African studio potters, where masters like Ken Collins made it their signature aesthetic.
Origin & Era

Made in South Africa, Circa 1970s - 1980s.
Dimensions

Approximate Dimensions: Height 13.5cm, Length 24.2cm, Width 24.2cm, Circumference across belly 76cm.
Vintage Condition

Good vintage condition. No structural chips, cracks, or repairs. The vessel is structurally sound, clean, and holds its dramatic shape beautifully. The raw stoneware foot ring remains clean, level, and stable.

Minor age-related wear. Fine, uniform age-related crazing is present throughout the glaze surface, adding beautiful authentic vintage character. Light shelf wear on the bottom unglazed foot ring from display.
Price
R 1,650.00
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