This handcrafted vessel showcases the artistry of Silas Bradley, combining functional elegance with visual drama. The interplay between rich cobalt and creamy salt glazes creates an eye-catching aesthetic that elevates any space. Perfect for displaying fresh blooms or enjoying your favorite beverage, this piece proves that everyday objects can be extraordinary works of art. Dishwasher- and microwave-safe. Measuring 3"w top & bottom x 2.25"w middle x 5"h.
Please Note: What appear to be white spots on the surface are reflections from photo lighting.
Salt Glaze
Salt Glaze was first discovered by German potters in the late 14th century. Due to the high firing temperatures, stoneware clays are required. The pieces can be handled and decorated with clay slips of many different colors, or, glazed partially with Cobalt Blue Glaze. The surface may resemble the texture of an orange peel. This was an early glaze used by settlers during the 19th century in the Seagrove area. Many of the pieces Ben makes in Salt Glaze are functional, even the more decorative large-scale pots.
Cobalt Blue
The Cobalt Blue glaze has been used by the Owen family for over four generations. Early salt glaze wares made in the late 1800s were decorated with a cobalt blue glaze over the grey salt finish. Over the past 50 years, Ben Owen Pottery has made some cobalt-glazed pieces using a uniform coating of the glaze on the surface of the pots. Today, Ben uses a glaze similar to the older, original glaze. This newer Cobalt Blue is glossy and reveals a depth to the finish. Sometimes, the Cobalt Blue is used to accentuate pieces that are fired in the wood kiln. These are called multi-layered glazes.
Silas Bradley
An apprentice at Ben Owen Pottery since August 2025, Silas crafts a variety of wares for the Tableware Collection. In addition to crafting work for the Pottery, Silas continues to create his own ware, focusing on stoneware pieces rendered unique through the raw unpredictability of atmospheric firings.
A native North Carolinian, Silas Bradley grew up in Clinton and discovered his passion for clay at a young age. Beginning his first apprenticeship at age 16 in Burgaw, NC, Silas immersed himself in the world of clay. This time exposed him to a wide variety of methods and techniques that sparked the development of Silas’ own voice in clay. Having worked in Texas and Montana making pots, Silas settled back in his home state to work further with the practices and traditions of Seagrove.
Silas is part of a new generation of North Carolina potters, eager to converse with longstanding traditions of craftsmanship while paving the way for new creations; with deep respect for tradition, Silas crafts pieces that evoke history and practice. Creating honest forms that are both familiar and new, Silas attempts to write a further line in the continuing story of North Carolina clay.
This piece is hand-signed by Silas Bradley (either “Silas” or “Silas Bradley”).