Loving cup with blooded spikes (love protects itself from the outside world, like thorns on a rose). Each handle is half of the whole circle (the circle of love). Elevated on a platform raised on a tripod of spiral feet (the tripod is the stablest shape). The moulded figures around the rim were inspired by prehistoric rock art which is believed to represent a couple in sexual union. The rim of the loving cup protects the contents within (love is not sipped from).
This was one of my first loving cups, made during my degree at Cheltenham. The idea for the design occured to me whilst doing bar work and dish washing to pay my way through my degree – I drew it on the back of a waiter’s notepad. I have kept it in my personal collection for 22 years, but now finally I am ready to part with it.
Earthenware with lead glaze coloured with metal oxides. Wheel-thrown, press-moulded, turned, extruded and hand-modelled.
Date made:
01/11/1999 – Glazed June 2000
Material:
Earthenware with lead glaze and raw oxides.
Height:
207 mm
Width:
208 mm
Net weight:
860 grams
Condition:
There are three burst glaze bubbles on the middle of body (see images), which occured during the firing. These have been carefully ground smooth.
