Craquelure Finish Appraisal

Glazed Ceramic Decorative Vase with Craquelure Finish

This is a decorative ceramic vase, likely intended for indoor display. The vase features a distinctive multi-glaze finish, divided into three horizontal bands. The top section exhibits a prominent craquelure (crackled) glaze in an off-white or very light beige color, with the underlying darker ceramic body showing through the fine network of cracks, creating a striking visual texture. This crackling is uniform and appears to be an intentional artistic effect rather than damage. Below this, there's a smooth, mid-tone brown or tan glaze band that transitions seamlessly into the bottom section. The lowest part of the vase is finished in a darker, rich brown glaze, which appears to have a slightly matte or satin finish. A notable feature is the 'drip' effect where the mid-tone brown glaze bleeds downward into the darker brown section, creating a series of irregular, elongated, and somewhat pointy streaks, suggesting a reactive or artistic hand-applied glazing technique. The overall form of the vase is substantial, with a rounded, possibly ovoid or amphora-like body that tapers towards its opening, which is not fully visible but appears to be relatively narrow and perhaps slightly flared. The craftsmanship indicates a molded or wheel-thrown ceramic base, meticulously glazed to achieve the desired aesthetic. No visible manufacturing marks or signatures are apparent from the provided image. The visible condition suggests it is in good shape, with no obvious chips, cracks (beyond the intentional craquelure), or repairs. The style appears contemporary, possibly dating from the late 20th century to the present day, aiming for a rustic yet modern decorative appeal. The combination of textures and earthy tones gives it a unique and sophisticated presence.