Stonewareexpand_more
Gift of Antay S. Bilgutayexpand_more 2006.39.4
Wright's "Casual China" line designed in 1946 for Iroquois China Company was not as adventurous design-wise as "American Modern," but it possessed some of the same qualities such as organic forms and mix-and-match colors such as Sugar White, Ice Blue, Ripe Apricot, and Pink Sherbet. The pieces were made of harder-bodied stoneware fired at 2,300 degrees F, so Iroquois confidently guaranteed replacement upon breakage for three years. To market the superior qualities of their design, Russel and Mary Wright did in-store demonstrations of its durability, dumping a load of just-washed dishes out onto a counter.
The Iroquois "Casual China" carafe was meant to hold beverages such as water or wine, and to be easily incorporated with other dinnerware of the time. This piece in particular is sculptural, modern, and informal, with no lid, just an ergonomic grip (through which the carafe was filled) for pouring from the side spout. Never satisfied, Wright tinkered with the designs of "Casual China" components several times. These updates bought the line some extra staying power until it was discontinued in 1966.
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
Does something look wrong with this image? Let us know
No Image Available