Asymmetrical stoneware vases, handmade

Set of two stoneware vases wheel-thrown by Laure Fonteneau, a ceramic artist based in Vernoux en Vivarais in Ardèche. Their asymmetrical shape is achieved by deforming the piece from the inside. The surface combines several colored clays and irregularly applied glazes, and the interior is glazed, making it watertight. They are fired at 1,240 °C.

Description

Each vase starts on the wheel with a straight shape. The potter then deforms it from the inside by hand to give it its asymmetrical silhouette. Once the clay has firmed up, she works on the piece again to set its final shape.

Next comes the surface work. Laure applies several layers of different colored clays, giving the vase its raw appearance. She glazes the interior, then applies the outer glazes in a deliberately irregular way. Firing at 1,240 °C vitrifies the clay and sets the glazes.

L’s glazed interior makes the vases watertight: they can hold water and fresh flowers, or sit empty on a shelf.

As each piece is shaped and glazed by hand, no two are exactly alike: the shape, colors, and glaze patterns vary from one vase to another. The ones you receive will be similar to the photo, but not identical.

Specifications

Glazed stoneware, glazed interior (watertight). Fired at 1,240 °C. Handmade in Ardèche (France).

Care
Rinse the vases with lukewarm water after use, using a bottle brush if needed. Change the flower water regularly. Avoid the dishwasher and abrasive sponges to prevent damaging the decoration.

About Laure Fonteneau:

A few years ago, I trained on the potter’s wheel with Elodie Culis in the Drôme. We worked on all kinds of forms and kept very few pieces over several months. Our work was to practice and gradually acquire the potter’s techniques: centering the clay, raising it with even walls...

After these intense periods, I settled in Vernoux en Vivarais in Ardèche and started producing work. I continue to train while working, which is an excellent way to learn. The field of possibilities in ceramics is so vast, and the ways of working are endless... I focus my work on using simple materials and fairly understated, practical forms. I draw inspiration from observations in nature and various impressions from the forest, mountains, and sea...

I currently work in a shared studio in Vernoux, where several of us work as potters. It is also a place for training, exchange, and connection.

Discover our website: https://www.lepotao.fr/

Find my creations on Instagram: @laurefonteneau