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In collaboration with Annie Sloan, this original artwork has been created exclusively for Oxfordshire ArtWeeks, inspired by the Bodleian's medieval bestiary collection.
Whilst these men might seem doomed; medieval readers would have been familiar with the contemporary lore of a lion. Noble but not tame, strong but not easily angered, a lion will not attack a prostate man, allows captive prey to escape, and attacks only when attacked. This reflects the ideal qualities of a just and fair king, who is powerful but protective. The lion often represents Jesus and gives moral guidance on how men should behave. Annie’s lion dominates the bowl with his curly mane and huge size but does not threaten the viewer and his cowering subjects seem close to an off-stage escape.
These handmade plates are made from red terracotta clay (earthenware), individually thrown and trimmed on a potter's wheel. Loosely based on Delftware 'Blue Dash' chargers from the 17th & 18th centuries. Hand painted by Annie Sloan and fired in an electric kiln to 1080 degrees Celsius.
This piece is matt glazed.
- Handmade plates made from red terracotta clay (earthenware)
- Individually thrown and trimmed
- Hand painted with ceramic glazes and signed by Annie Sloan
- 32cms diameter
