Pyrophorous Vase
Object NamePyrophorous Vase
Manufacturer
Wedgwood
(English (Stoke-on-Trent, England), founded 1759)
Datec. 1815
OriginEngland
MediumBlack basalt with rosso antico
Dimensions5 x 3 3/8 in. (12.7 x 8.6 cm)
ClassificationsDecorative Arts, Ceramics
Credit LineGift of M. Burton Drexler. In the M. Burton Drexler Collection, Brunnier Art Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.
Object numberUM2000.91
Status
Not on viewCollections
CultureEnglish
Label TextThe continued experimentation in innovative, yet eminently useful new wares, continued as the pottery passed into the hands of new generations throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. This pyrophorous vase is a wonderful example of a needed tool, a lighter, as sulfur matches had not yet been invented. The basalt body with antico rosso decoration not only gave beauty to the object, but was also able to contain the combustible materials within and not be damaged.
Markings69
Published ReferencesSimilar example in "Wedgwood: Volume II" by Robin Reilly, pg. 454
Locations
- (not entered) Iowa State University, Brunnier Main Storage
Object Name: Miniature Teapot with cover
Wedgwood
c. 1830
Object number: 2.8.114ab
