A lidded vase of generous proportions in every aspect, this hexagonal slab-built piece is quite unusual given that we know who made it. Looking at the underside, the R.G.H signature matches that of Robert Garnett Heal. Born in 1904, he was the great grandson of John Harris Heal, the founder of famed British homeware and furniture retail company Heals.
Remaining part of the family business, Robert became the managing director of beds and mattresses at the iconic company.
Heal rose through the ranks and eventually became co-director. It is unclear when Robert wished to become a potter, but we know that he produced pieces alongside business management responsibilities, the resulting work now rather collectable.
What makes this example unusual is the lack of brushwork and ornamentation, instead featuring a smooth gradient glaze that transitions from deep blue/green to sky blue and white. Although hexagonal, it is by no means a work of symmetry, but this results in a certain level of charm and artistry that makes the object all the more interesting. The quality of execution however, is just as we would expect from Robert Garnett Heal.
