The Gathered Collection — Van Slooten Studio Pottery Vessel — Orange Coast College 1970s

Some objects feel like they were made to be held.

This handmade studio pottery vessel is finished in a warm speckled glaze — a muted blend of sandy beige and soft olive tones with fine iron freckles visible throughout. The glaze carries a gentle satin sheen, catching light in a restrained and quietly beautiful way. Toward the base it thins slightly, revealing hints of the natural clay body beneath.

The foot ring is unglazed, exposing raw clay with clean trimming marks — the unmistakable signature of something made entirely by hand. Reminiscent of mid century studio pottery and Japanese influenced utilitarian ware, this is a piece meant to be held, used and lived with rather than admired from afar.

This piece was created by Van Slooten, a beloved ceramics teacher at Orange Coast College during the 1970s who left behind a quiet legacy in the hands of every student he taught. His work is increasingly rare and sought after by collectors of California studio pottery. To own a piece is to hold a little piece of Orange Coast history.

Fill it with a single stem from your garden. Set it on a shelf where the light hits it in the morning. Place it at the center of a beautifully set table.

Quietly luxurious in the way that only handmade things can be.

Part of the Bill & Evelyn Gathered Collection — vintage pieces sourced individually and chosen for their beauty, character and soul.

All sales final on vintage pieces. Condition details accurately described. Complimentary shipping included.