Vase (Primary Title)
Charles W. Clewell, American, 1876 - 1965 (Artist)
Charles Clewell was a distinguished metal craftsman who is credited with being the first artisan to use an entire metal overlay on a ceramic foundation. He began his career as an engraver’s apprentice before taking up employment with Diebold metalworkers; he opened his first one-man manufactory in 1906. Three years later, Clewell developed his metal-on-pottery technique, applying a skintight shell – often copper or bronze – over clay bisque forms acquired from other local Ohio potteries. The green-blue color of this vase was inspired by the oxidized surface of ancient copper and bronze wares.
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