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

Hand-built rather than thrown on a wheel, the vessel has an unusually broad and flattened form, measuring 48 cm across while only 10 cm deep. Viewed from the front it has an almost monolithic presence, with softly rounded sides rising towards a small elliptical opening. From the side, its remarkably narrow profile becomes apparent, giving the piece a very different character depending on the angle from which it is viewed.

This is a rare form within Philp's work and one we have not encountered before. While we have handled a number of his vessels over the years, the combination of its unusually large scale and exceptionally broad, flattened shape makes this piece particularly distinctive. Its proportions give it considerable presence when viewed from the front, while from the side it becomes unexpectedly slender.

The surface is particularly beautiful. Layers of pale grey, chalky white, ochre and earthy brown have been built up across the stoneware, creating a dry, heavily textured finish. Scratches, markings and irregularities remain visible throughout the surface and give the vessel the appearance of something weathered or excavated rather than newly made.

This quality is characteristic of Philp's work. His vessels are built by hand and typically undergo several high-temperature firings, with successive layers of clay, slips, oxides, ash and glaze used to develop their complex surfaces. Philp's interest in rugged and eroded surfaces, fossils, ancient stone and early ceramics is particularly apparent in this piece.

Despite its substantial scale when viewed from the front, the vessel is remarkably slender and works as much as a piece of sculpture as it does as a ceramic vessel. The restrained form allows the heavily worked surface to remain the focus.

The vessel is a unique piece and 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.