'Omaggio in White’ large porcelain vase by Amy Hughes

This beautiful, timeless vase was crafted by the contemporary ceramicist Amy Hughes. Graduating from the Royal College of Art in 2010, Amy’s ingenious work has since been exhibited in many high-profile exhibitions and fairs, as well as being nominated for several notable awards. In 2015, she was selected for the first ‘Ceramics and Industry’ residency at the Victoria and Albert Museum, London.

This vase is part of a series of ‘Omaggio’ vases, which were inspired by the etchings of the great Italian artist and architect Piranesi (1720-1788). Each of the three vases combines classical bodies with exaggerated decoration, inspired by Piranesi’s creativity and imagination.

Of elegant, campagna form, the vase is crafted from snow-white porcelain and sits on a slight asymmetrical tilt. Most of the vase is unglazed, allowing the viewer to appreciate the textural qualities of the ceramic. These rougher areas are contrasted by the smooth glazing on the fluted lip, which catches the eye. The upper section of the body and the lip are covered with press moulded details, which take the form of hundreds of acanthus leaves that appear to be almost taking over the vase. The overlapping leaves pay heed to the maximalism Piranesi was famous for, as well as referencing antique furniture and decorative arts more broadly since acanthus leaves were a common decorative motif.

Displaying incredible artistic prowess, this beautiful vase could complement both a modern and a traditional space. View the other vases in the series here and here.