1970'a South African Rorke's Drift Stoneware Pottery Vessel by Dinah Molefe

Details

Description

The Rorke's Drift Art & Craft Centre of KwaZulu-Natal South Africa was founded by the Church of Sweden. It's purpose … Read more The Rorke's Drift Art & Craft Centre of KwaZulu-Natal South Africa was founded by the Church of Sweden. It's purpose was to train nurses in the arts. Who would pass them down to their patients as occupational therapy. In 1968 Danish potters along with native artisans leveraged Zulu and Sotho coiling techniques plus throwing skills. The end result being a modern interpretation and unique style of ceramic art based on historical and native legacies. Using a limited range of brown, ochre, yellow, blue, and black hues.

Dinah Molefe worked at Rorke's Drift from 1967-1983. Initially as student and later as a teacher. Her work was inspired by traditional Zulu Sotho beer-pottery and beadwork, and basketry. Decorating hand built pots with geometric decoration, applied coils, and oxide glazes.

This large stoneware vase is signed "Dinah Malffe" on the underside. Which also displays the Rorke's Drift incised leaf. And an item code which dates this piece to 1972. This piece was purchased by the original owner in South Africa shortly thereafter. Be sure to check out our shop for additional Rorke's Drift pottery pieces currently available for purchase.

Measures 13" diameter x 11" high.

In good condition due to an old repair on the upper rim. Consisting of a u-shaped shard (measuring approximately 2" wide x 4" high) which has been glued in place. Barely noticeable to the naked eye. Otherwise the balance of the piece displays no structural issues, cracks, breaks, or chips of note. Nor noticeable loss to glazed surfaces. Please see photos for details. See less