Large Bulbous Studio Pottery Jug by Martin Goerg - Elfriede Balzar Kopp

Stock Number: – OWA3555

Date: - Circa Late 1970s-1980

Materials: – German Westerwald Clay; An Advantage For Potters! The extensive clay quarries of the Westerwald region are the largest connected deposits in Europe. Only a few other regions in the world are known to have clay sources of comparable size and quality. Around 15 different types of clay occur here, including a very valuable white clay also known as “white gold”. The Westerwald clay has a high degree of ductility, is almost free of impurities and has very good sintering properties. These clays are perfectly suited for stoneware production, a high fired, waterproof, acid-resistant, impermeable pottery. The clay was easily kneaded, thrown, deformed as well as knitted, melt, beaten and whipped. It is a serious partner to the potter reacting to any treatment. 

Country of Origin: – Germany, Höhr Grenzhausen 

Description: – A very interesting and scarce example of an early work by Martin Goerg during his time as an apprentice trainee at Elfriede Balzar Kopps Höhr Grenzhausen studio. The design is an original design of Elfriede’s that was made during a training session and is signed by both Elfriede Balzar Kopp and Martin Goerg. This stunning example is 33cm tall and weighs an impressive 3600g. The body is superbly painted with a modernist floral design in traditional enamels. The base signed Balzar Kopp & MG

Size & Weight: – The vase is 33cm tall and weighs an impressive 3600g

Condition: –  The vase is in excellent condition without any chips, cracks losses or restoration to the body, decoration or enamels.

Photography: –  There are several areas of slight discolouration which is caused by light and the photography.

History & Marks:–  This example is signed/Inscribed  Balzar Kopp, but it has another initial below it that of MG (Martin Goerg), and dates from the Circa 1980. Whilst no one could say that this piece is a one off study it is rare to see pieces double signed. In this case Martin Goerg was working under the supervision with Elfriede during his studies.  However, one could say that, although you may come across another example. One would quickly realise that each one stands alone –  ‘it is a one off’. I state this because the outcome of each piece of studio pottery depends deeply on how it is placed in the kiln and moreover, how it reacts during the firing. Very few studio pieces are totally identical. Martin Goerg is now a stunning and celebrated  potter in his own right.

Further Information:- If you would like further information about Elfriede Balzar Kopps work and biography - please go to the information page, Click on the Biographies Page where you will see her name, Click on the image and the information will appear. 

Declaration:- This item is as described and dates from the period highlighted.

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