Inventory Number MAC181
Size 8.5" H x 7" Diam.
Material Earthenware
Country of Origin France
Year Made c. 1900
The double gourd, originally a Chinese shape, was a form perfected by the Massier studios, as evidenced by this vase. The gourd, the rind of which at one time was used as a vessel from which to drink, is employed symbolically as the cup from which the bees have come to drink the nectar. The round shape of the lower bulb suggests firstly, the whole flower over which the bees are hovering. We can imagine, though not quite actually see the actual petals, as they are represented only by the subtle background etching which reflects differing qualities of light. The petals, therefore, are more implied than indicated. Visualised everted, the lower bulb is seen to be the inside of the flower, the dimpled spots, the pollen for which the bees have come. The upper bulb elegantly mimics the flower still in bud stage, just prior to blooming. The variety of imagery in this lowkey vase can easily be missed without sufficient thought and imagination.
-Description by Christopher Baker
