Non-Silver Contemporary Matte Black Ceramic Face Vessel Set
Hollowware (Decorative Objects/Vases) · Unknown mass-market manufacturer; typical of contemporary lifestyle brands like H&M Home, West Elm, or Amazon vendors.
Pattern: Modern Surrealist / Anthropomorphic Face Series
Type
Hollowware (Decorative Objects/Vases)
Maker
Unknown mass-market manufacturer; typical of contemporary lifestyle brands like H&M Home, West Elm, or Amazon vendors.
Material
Ceramic or stoneware (non-metallic); finished with a matte black slip or glaze; no silver content present.
Dimensions
Tall bottle: approx. 10-12 inches; Wide pot: approx. 5-6 inches. Weight likely 500-1000g depending on clay density.
Description
A pair of decorative ceramic vessels featuring abstract facial motifs. The set includes a tall, slender bottle with loop handles and a shorter, wide bowl. Both are finished in a non-reflective black coating, offering a striking monochromatic aesthetic.
Key Features
Stylized facial features (closed eyelids, full lips); matte 'blacked-out' texture; anthropomorphic silhouette.
Material & Composition
Ceramic or stoneware (non-metallic); finished with a matte black slip or glaze; no silver content present.
Finish & Decoration
Matte black satin finish with raised bas-relief facial features including eyes, noses, and lips in a minimalist, surrealist style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible; likely has a printed brand stamp or 'Made in China' sticker on the unglazed base.
Construction Details
Slip-cast from a mold; machine-manufactured in a factory setting rather than hand-wrought.
Functional Features
Decorative vase (tall unit) and cachepot/planter (wide unit); no silver-standard functional features like spouts or hinges.
Handle & Grip Details
Tall vessel features two circular 'loop' ears/handles cast as part of the body; wide vessel is handleless.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial slip-casting with minimal hand-finishing; consistent wall thickness indicates mold-based mass production.
Authentication Indicators
Visual inspection confirms item is ceramic, not silver; lacks any luster, metallic ping, hallmarking, or weight characteristic of silver hollowware.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely industrially produced in China or Vietnam for the global homeware market.
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary (2010s-2020s); influenced by Mid-Century Modernism and 'Face Art' trends.
Age Estimate
Circa 2018-2024; based on the high-popularity of matte black anthropomorphic decor in recent retail seasons.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Instagrammable' home decor movement where sculptural elements take precedence over traditional ornamentation.
Condition Notes
Good; visible dust and light surface scuffing common to matte glazes. No visible cracks or chips. Overall: Very Good.
Value Estimate
$20.00 - $45.00 USD for the set (Retail market value); negligible resale value.
Care & Maintenance
Wipe with a damp microfiber cloth to remove dust; avoid abrasive pads which can leave permanent shiny marks on matte finishes.
Similar Pieces
Jonathan Adler 'Dora Maar' collection (high-end porcelain alternative); H&M Home 'Face Vase' (budget alternative).
Interesting Facts
The 'Face-as-Art' trend in ceramics was heavily influenced by the rediscoveries of Picasso's Madoura pottery and Jean Cocteau's sketches.