Featured Mystery Fish

This 5” (13cm) tall fish is an absolute mystery.

its hand made in a dark terracotta. It seems to be partially glazed but the “glaze” could just be an acquired patina from handling as it does not cover the whole piece.

It could be used as a jug as there are holes at each end and it can pour from either.

The grooves on top look a bit like an ash tray but they are the wrong shape and size for cigarettes.

I am stumped.

Any ideas on use or origin

Thanks in advance

John

 

I’m wondering about the possibility of a multi wick oil lamp.

 

Aside it having a Eastern aesthetic I can't really help - but I do like it!

 

I did wonder about that, but I would think the lower sections would need to jut out a bit for this or the flame would hit the top sections above.

 

I wonder if it is from Oaxaca, Mexico. They make black pottery and love fish shapes.

 

That is beautifully formed. Nice piece. Whatever the origin.

 

I think we have to accept that some things just have artistic merit without particular functionality. Perhaps this is one them.

 

I agree with that sentiment but do feel that this is a functional object.

 

That was my first thought, but Oaxacan pottery is more asphalt black in color, and this one looks brownish. Also the, the finish inside looks different

 

To my eye, the interior doesn't look quite right for barro negro or black pottery from México.

Debora

 

i hate it when something strikes me as familiar ...but i can't place it....

 

is it painted over white ceramics? I think I can see a chip on the fish's tail

 

No more than an espresso cup. Any more and it would rub out of the bottom.

 

There is a nick on the tail but it is the same colour as the inside of the base.

 

His tail goes the wrong way. I doubt it was made by anyone who actually knew fish. It may just be an art project.

 

A ceramic 'bell' minus its clapper?

 

Nice idea but I don't think so. Still searching.

 

Blowfish