Images(3)

Jardinière urn and stand

Date1997

Maker Michael Crocker

OriginAmerica, Georgia, Lula

MediumStoneware, ash-glazed with black, gold, moss

DimensionsOverall (stand and urn together): 35 3/8 x 18 1/2 x 16in. (89.9 x 47 x 40.6cm) Overall (urn only): 9 3/4 x 18 1/2 x 16in. (24.8 x 47 x 40.6cm) Overall (stand only): 25 1/2 x 10 3/4 x 10 3/4in. (64.8 x 27.3 x 27.3cm)

Credit LineGift of Daisy Wade Bridges

Object number2010.900.3,A&B

DescriptionTwo-part jardinière (A) and stand (B). Urn-shaped jardinière with rolled and slightly everted rim, two handles, one affixed to either side of the vessel, and the front covered with flowers crafted by Michael Crocker's mother, Pauline Crocker. The pipe-shaped stand encircled by an elaborately fashioned snake climbing up the piece and with mouth wide and fangs exposed at the top of the stand. The snake modeled by Michael's brother, Melvin Crocker.
Label TextThis jardinière is very much a product of a strong familial potting tradition. The vessel itself was thrown by Michael Crocker, the snakes were sculpted by his brother Melvin, and the flowers were modeled by their mother Pauline. Michael and Melvin worked together creating face jugs, pitchers, and jugs ornamented with snakes until 1999 when Melvin left to start his own shop. Unlike many contemporary potters, Michael works only with local clays and handmade glazes. These traditional practices link him directly to the history of Georgia folk pottery.
ProvenancePurchased from the potter by Daisy Wade Bridges