Clock case and vase

Art Historical Context

In the American Wing of the Metropolitan Museum Art, the *Clock case and vase*1898) stands as a charming example of late 19th American ingenuity. Crafted in earthenware by George E Ohr and John Harry Portman, this 14 13/16-inch (37.6 cm) hybrid object merges functionality with decorative appeal—a clock case adorned or integrated with a vase form. Earthenware, a low ceramic prized for its earthy tones and accessibility, was a staple in American pottery studios, allowing artists to experiment with everyday luxury. This collaboration reflects the vibrant decorative arts scene of the Gilded Age, when potters like Ohr pushed boundaries with bold forms and glazes, often drawing from European influences while celebrating American craftsmanship. The piece's dual purpose highlights the era's fascination with multifunctional objects, blending timekeeping utility with floral display in a single earthen form. Generously gifted by Robert A. Ellison Jr. in 2018, it invites visitors to appreciate how such modest materials captured the spirit of innovation and domestic elegance in turn-of-the-century America. A delightful glimpse into our creative past!