Greg Patton 10.25" Figural Face Vessel DP6073

Greg's work is inspired by the decorated stoneware and face jugs of 19th-century Edgefield, SC pottery. He works with traditional elements of this style, including ash glazes and slip decoration. Greg also draws ideas from the tradition of pottery throughout the Southeast, incorporating and reinterpreting old themes to create a mixed body of work.

This large-scale figural face vessel represents an ambitious and highly sculptural extension of the Southern face jug tradition. Drawing influence from Edgefield pottery while pushing into a more complex narrative form, Patton transforms the vessel into a multi-figure composition. The central form features a prominent, elongated face with wide-set eyes, a detailed mouth, and incised decorative elements across the brow. Flowing from either side are scrolling, handle-like extensions that terminate in two additional sculpted heads—each with distinct expressions and glaze treatments. One head is rendered in a lighter alkaline palette, while the other, with horn-like protrusions, is finished in a deeper, iron-rich tone, introducing contrast and a subtle sense of tension or duality.

The primary vessel is coated in a soft green, variegated glaze that breaks across the surface, emphasizing texture and movement while allowing the sculptural modeling to remain pronounced. Decorative banding near the rim adds structure, balancing the expressive facial elements below. This piece moves beyond traditional utility into the realm of narrative and sculptural folk art, while still maintaining ties to the historic Southern pottery lineage. It stands as a statement work for collectors, combining craftsmanship, symbolism, and a dynamic visual presence within the contemporary face jug tradition.

Measures 10.25" tall, about 10.5" wide across handles and has a 5.25" base and a 5" top opening.

We will not pack and ship this piece ourselves. It will be handed off to UPS and they will do the packing and shipping. This is not inexpensive as they will charge for all the materials plus the actual shipping. Signature is required for delivery. Pottery does not ship outside of the continental US.