Vase
This vase is stamped with the monogram "HCR," for Hugh Cornwall Robertson, one of the sons of the founder of the Chelsea Keramic Art Works. The flattened-oval shape with elephant-head handles is most likely influenced by Chinese forms that Hugh Robertson would have seen when he visited the Centennial Exhibition in Philadelphia in 1876. The front of the vase is decorated with an incised male portrait and inscribed with the motto: "Mature Reflection Corrects the Actions of the Future from the Errors of the Past." This vase is typical of the pottery’s production in incorporating Asian influences into its forms and decoration. For other examples by this pottery see 69.35, 69.38.2, 1982.440.1–.4, 1992.231, and L.1983.52.
Artwork Details
- Title: Vase
- Designer: Designed by Hugh C. Robertson (1844–1908)
- Manufacturer: Manufactured by Chelsea Keramic Art Works (1872–1889)
- Date: 1800–1900
- Geography: Made in Chelsea, Massachusetts, United States
- Culture: American
- Medium: Probably earthenware
- Dimensions: 14 7/8 x 6 7/8 x 4 in. (37.8 x 17.5 x 10.2 cm)
- Credit Line: Purchase, The Edgar J. Kaufmann Foundation Gift, 1969
- Object Number: 69.38.1
- Curatorial Department: The American Wing
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