Greg Patton 11" Figural Face Vessel DP6402

This unusual figural vessel by Greg Patton expands the Southern face jug tradition beyond the familiar sculpted head. Rather than simply applying a face to the vessel, Patton gives the elongated form a complete human presence, with sculpted eyes, ears, nose, mouth, and long applied arms extending down the sides of the body. A deep black glaze with subtle blue-green highlights gives the piece a dramatic, reflective surface while allowing the lighter clay accents of the eyes, teeth, and mouth to stand out. The asymmetrical arms and individually modeled hands add movement and personality, giving the vessel an almost animated quality.

Patton's work is strongly informed by the historic Edgefield pottery tradition of South Carolina, but pieces such as this demonstrate how he carries that tradition into contemporary folk pottery. Familiar elements of the Southern face vessel are retained while the human figure and vessel become one, creating a work that is both humorous and slightly uncanny.

Measures 11" tall, about 5.75" top opening and a 5.75" base.