A sculptural stoneware vessel by British ceramic artist Paul Philp, dating from the 2010s.

Hand-built, the vessel has a distinctly architectural four-sided form, with gently curved planes defined by pronounced vertical edges. The body subtly expands through its centre before narrowing towards the top, terminating in a small irregular opening. Viewed directly from the front it has a broad, almost monolithic presence, while from the side its considerably more slender proportions become apparent. The subtle irregularities between each face prevent the geometry from becoming overly rigid and give the piece a quiet, organic character.

The pale, heavily worked surface is characteristic of Philp's ceramics. Layers of chalky white, soft grey and earthy brown sit across the stoneware, with scratches, incised markings and areas of exposed material creating considerable depth and variation. The darker interior provides a particularly effective contrast with the restrained exterior.

Philp builds his vessels slowly by hand, developing their surfaces through repeated firings and the application of different clays, slips, oxides and other materials. His work draws upon naturally eroded surfaces, ancient ceramics, stone and architecture, resulting in pieces that can appear weathered or excavated despite being contemporary.

This vessel particularly demonstrates the more architectural side of Philp's work. The combination of four gently curved planes, defined vertical edges and contrasting proportions gives the piece a strong sculptural quality, changing considerably as it is viewed from different angles.

The vessel carries Paul Philp's impressed potter's seal to the base.

Viewing is warmly welcomed at our West London showroom.

High-resolution photographs, detailed condition reports and video inspections are available upon request.

We offer local, national and international shipping.

Please contact us for further information or to arrange a private viewing.