Koi Junk Teapot
2009
The back of this work has a “Made in China” decal to highlight current and historical relationships in global trade. The teacup’s encrustations make it look like salvage from a shipwreck. Erickson uses agateware ceramic technology invented in 8th-century China, which 18th-century potters in England copied to take advantage of the enormous demand for but short supply of Chinese porcelain.
Porcelain, colored earthenware agate, indigenous clays
Howard Kottler Endowment for Ceramic Art
2011.23
Provenance: Michelle Erickson Pottery, Inc., Hampton, Virginia; purchased by Seattle Art Museum, Seattle, Washington, 2011
Photo: Gavin Ashworth, NY