1998

Master #264, Pair on Base

American, born 1941

Stating that his decorative vessels are “about line, shape, color, pattern, and edge,” Bennett Bean creates complex compositions of undulating, overlapping, and interlocked ceramic slabs like this one. Rich patterns of color and form are found on the surface of his multipartite vessels, sending contrasting messages of spontaneity, patterning (produced in the pit fire), and precision (from the hand-painted geometric designs). Further embellishment of gold leaf on the interior of the work radiates light, providing juxtaposition between interior and exterior space.