Vase with leaves

Art Historical Context

This elegant stoneware vase, titled *Vase with leaves* and created in 1903, stands as a fine example of early American art pottery. Produced by the Van Briggle Pottery Company under the direction of Artus Van Briggle, the 15½-inch vessel showcases the organic leaf motifs that were characteristic of the period’s decorative arts. Its restrained form and focus on natural elements reflect a broader interest in handcrafted objects during the opening years of the twentieth century. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s American Wing, the piece highlights the development of studio ceramics in the United States. Van Briggle’s work helped establish a distinctly American voice in pottery, blending functional design with artistic expression. The vase’s presence in the collection underscores the enduring appeal of these early experiments in American decorative. Donated to the museum in 2020 by Martin Eidelberg, *ase with leaves* offers visitors a tangible connection to the innovative spirit of American makers at the turn of the last century.

About the Artist

Artus Van Briggle|Van Briggle Pottery Company · 1869–1904

American, Felicity, Ohio 1869–1904 Colorado Springs, Colorado