This fantastic hand decorated 10.25" tall salt glaze stoneware bottle vase was made by Marc Ward. The piece appears to be inspired both in form and decoration by ceramics dating to the Song Dynasty (960 - 1279) and also resembles items by highly regarded late 18th/early 19th century English potters Martin Brothers, known for their proficiency working with salt glaze. This vase has high wide rounded shoulders and a short narrow neck with a flared rim. The body features striking cobalt blue floral and foliate decoration with sgraffito accents. The neck is encircled by a narrow cobalt band which borders solid cobalt blue decoration. The vase exhibits a thick layer of bubbly salt glaze which has accumulated around the lower portion, adding to its visual interest.

The vase is in very good condition with no chips cracks or repairs. As a vintage piece, the item shows signs of age consisting of crazing to the thicker areas of salt glaze which is mentioned for accuracy. The vase stands 10.25" tall and is 6" across the widest point of the shoulders. The rim of the vase is 1.875" from edge to edge and the foot is 4" in diameter. The underside is signed in the clay with the artist's name "Marc Ward". The piece weighs in at 4 lbs.

This unusual Marc Ward salt glaze sgraffito stoneware vase displays beautifully and would be a great addition to a collection of fine studio art pottery. A lovely vintage find!