Vase, Wedgwood (Barlaston, England, founded 1759), c.1768–1800. Stoneware with slip decoration, 37.5 x 14 cm; base only; 9.5 x 9.5 cm. Saint Louis Art Museum, Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Milton L. Zorensky, 2166:1983a,b..

This vase's decoration of figures in classical dress and bands of ornament, and its arched strap handles that end in acanthus foliage, were meant to evoke an ancient Greek vase. Yet the vase is neither ancient nor a pure copy. Its narrow neck flaring to a broad shoulder and tapering again at the base creates a more dynamic form than the typical amphora shape that provided a broad surface for ancient vase painters. The deep black clay from which it is made and its red enamel decoration simulate the coloring of ancient pottery, although it exactly reverses the Greek practice of painting in black on red clay.

Vase, Wedgwood (Barlaston, England, founded 1759), c.1790. Stoneware with enamel, 24.8 x 11.4 cm. Saint Louis Art Museum, Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Milton L. Zorensky, 257:1989a,b.