Steve Harrison - 2000 Lion Bellarmine Jug

In its long-standing infatuation with polymath potter Steve Harrison, Choosing Keeping is pleased to offer a small selection of historical pieces which offer an insight into the artist's beginnings and re-imaginations. Working through different kilns, clay types and finishes, each rendering unique idiosyncrasies, Steve's early work is often starker and closer to the British studio pottery rugged aesthetic. Mid-career pieces offer development into historical and sometimes more feminine forms. Later pieces, straddle the field of fine art, obsessive with experimentation and pushing boundaries. All have in common the vigour and passion of the artist. This very early and curious piece from 2000, called a Bellarmine, usually featuring the bearded face mask, but tweaked here as a lion's face, demonstrates Steve's particular interest in salt glazing, following in the Rhineland tradition typical of the 17th century. Steve produced this jug as part of a special project with the Lion Salt Works. It is one of 28 jugs produced at the Lion Salt Works.