Tall Vessel - Tui Kowhaiwhai

For me, the Tūī represents strength, guidance, a free spirit and the protection of love.

In this vessel, two Tūī fly around the form - there is a sense of movement as they fly towards each other, and their connection is shown by the kōwhaiwhai inspired pattern which flows around the rim.

The tall, organic form gives the piece a strong presence, while the handmade surface and black-and-white artwork is a natural contrast to the golden shining interior. There are no words on this piece. The Tūī, the flowing pattern and the form of the vessel are the artwork.

Made by me

I shape each vessel by hand before creating the painted and etched artwork on its surface. From the first piece of clay through to the finished firing, each stage is done by me in my studio.

Because it is individually made, the shape, surface and painted details will have small variations. No two vessels can ever be exactly alike — yours is an original piece of Amber Smith ceramic art.

Made to stand on its own as a piece of art, this is a vessel to display, live with and treasure.

A little more about your vessel

One-of-a-kind handmade ceramic vessel

Two hand-painted Tūī

Kōwhaiwhai-inspired pattern around the rim

Matte black and white finish

Individually made and hand finished by me in Aotearoa

No words — the imagery is the artwork

Approx. 320mm high × 240mm wide