Tall cylindrical vase made of ceramic with a dark green matte glaze. Lower half is decorated with lacy pattern of ovals and arcs raised in relief. Stamped "TECO" and "74" on bottom.
This vase was made by Gates Potteries in Crystal Lake around 1915 as part of their Teco line of art pottery. It was purchased by the Chicago Historical Society from Ron Borko in 1976 for $90.
Subject Description
The"TECO" stamp was used to confirm that the piece was genuine. "74" is the number of the piece. The color of the glaze is meant to resemble aged bronze.
Curatorial Statement
This green matte vase represents the flourishing of the Arts and Crafts Movement in Chicago in the early 1900s and its connections with the Prairie School of architecture. Born in England, the Arts and Crafts movement emphasized craftsmanship, advocating a revival of traditional crafts to create items that were both beautiful and practical. Gates Potteries, established by William Day Gates in 1885, was one of the many small shops that sprung up around Chicago in response. The Teco line, featuring terracotta based pottery, was developed in the 1890s and was produced into the 1920s, targeting middle class consumers. Gates also worked with notable architects including Frank Lloyd Wright and William Le Baron Jenney to design Teco ware and produce elements like tiles and chimneys for their buildings.
