Currently not on view
Century Vase,
ca. 1876–77
Designed by Karl L.H. Müller, American, born Germany, 1820–1887
Manufactured by Union Porcelain Works, active 1863–ca. 1922 in Brooklyn, NY
Person depicted: George Washington, 1732–1799; born Westmoreland County, VA; died Mount Vernon, VA
Manufactured by Union Porcelain Works, active 1863–ca. 1922 in Brooklyn, NY
Person depicted: George Washington, 1732–1799; born Westmoreland County, VA; died Mount Vernon, VA
2011-117
More Context
The most renowned items produced by Union Porcelain Works for display at the Centennial Exhibition, held in Philadelphia in 1876, were two richly embellished “Century” vases; this uncolored reduction is one of a small number produced in the wake of its prototypes’ success. The vase’s distinctly American decoration refers to both natural and human history, with bisonhead handles and portraits of George Washington alternating around the shoulder. Six panels encircling the base depict episodes from the nation’s history, including William Penn’s Treaty with the Indians and the Boston Tea Party.
Information
Title
Century Vase
Dates
ca. 1876–77
Medium
Porcelain
Dimensions
32.4 x 26.7 x 18.7 cm (12 3/4 x 10 1/2 x 7 3/8 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Stuart P. Feld, Class of 1957, and Sue K. Feld
Object Number
2011-117
Place Made
United States, New York, Greenpoint, Brooklyn, New York, Union Porcelain Works
Culture
Materials
Subject
