I'll always remember the first time coming across Walter Keeler's work as a boy, and being totally awestruck - I still feel the same way today. As a collector of many stoneware pots, including those more conforming and 'serious' examples, Keeler's pieces completely flipped my existing perspective of what studio pottery can be completely on its head.
This lovely handled jug is a very good example of the exaggerated proportions often associated with his work. It brings with it a certain level of humour and cartoonishness that goes totally against the often straight-faced nature of traditionally crafted pottery. I sometimes find myself expecting his bowls, jugs and dishes to grow a mouth and legs before running off laughing..
A bold and often used deep blue salt glaze graces the surface of the jug, with thin 'rope' creating seams to the foot and opening, as well as defining the signature flattened handle that sits overlapping the rim. Stamped on both sides you will find the strong target shaped mark that confirms that this is by the hands of Walter Keeler beyond any doubt.
Born in 1942, Walter Keeler is a world-renowned British studio potter with his work held in many public collections including the Victoria & Albert Museum, the National Museum of Wales, Museum of Modern Art Tokyo and Los Angeles Museum of Art. He has participated in countless exhibitions from 1989 onwards, and pieces remain relentlessly sought-after.
