Svend Bayer Lug Handled Amphora

A wood-fired handled amphora vase, made by Svend Bayer in Devon, England circa 1989.

Svend Bayer's ceramics are characterised by simple glazes & essential, ancient forms with subtle curves and minimal decoration. The softness of his organic, handmade designs contributes greatly to their pleasing & tactile nature. His work is not only Earthlike due to the material, clay, and the wood-fired method, but this tangible quality is also achieved in form.  

The shape of this lug-handled vase has an ageless & permanent feel. Reminiscent of an ancient artefact, four handles have been applied on each side and grow from the vase with natural ease. The vase's round body is gently shouldered, and features a wide circular rim. The glaze is clear to respect the natural colour of the fired clay. The vase's decorative flecks and dapples are a result of the wood-firing process, and were caused by floating ash particles.

Svend Bayer, although born to Danish parents, has been based in England his entire life. Bayer has lived and worked in his Devon pottery since 1976, in which time he has built, destroyed and rebuilt more than 20 kilns, with each based upon structures encountered in travels to East & South-East Asia.