Footed Bowls: A Timeless Classic

FORMULATED is the Tortuga Forma journal about the rituals we create around the home, the objects that bring us joy, and the stories behind how things are made.

Photo: Hannah Whitaker

Footed bowls have stood the test of time as a household staple for centuries. The addition of a pedestal-like base elevates the vessel above the table, providing stability and a touch of sophistication. As we celebrate the launch of designer Farrah Sit's latest collection including an elevated serve bowl and rice bowl for Tortuga Forma, we are taking "footnotes" on our favorite bowls, past and present.

Predynastic offering bowl
15th century Ming Dynasty bowl

In the Predynastic Period, potters created a wide variety of ceramic vessels, and one of the most unusual was a bowl with anthropomorphic supports shaped like human feet. The theory goes that these simple, round bowls with a forward tilt were designed to hold offerings and used in rituals. 

The 15th-Century porcelain bowl is a remarkable example from China's Ming dynasty, featuring a cobalt blue and white floral motif. The bowl is made in the traditional tapered shape of a rounded lotus bud or chicken heart lotus, and is supported by a shallow foot. The bowl is adorned with peony, chrysanthemum, and pomegranate flowers in a silky glaze. Notably, there are only six known pieces like it in the world.

In the Predynastic Period, potters created a wide variety of ceramic vessels, and one of the most unusual was a bowl with anthropomorphic supports shaped like human feet. The theory goes that these simple, round bowls with a forward tilt were designed to hold offerings and used in rituals. 

The 15th-Century porcelain bowl is a remarkable example from China's Ming dynasty, featuring a cobalt blue and white floral motif. The bowl is made in the traditional tapered shape of a rounded lotus bud or chicken heart lotus, and is supported by a shallow foot. The bowl is adorned with peony, chrysanthemum, and pomegranate flowers in a silky glaze. Notably, there are only six known pieces like it in the world.

Korean ritual vessel
Lucie Rie, 1968

The 18th-century Korean ritual vessel was created during the Joseon dynasty. It exemplifies the traditional Korean ceramic style known as "Baekja," which is recognized by its milky white color and clear glaze.

The large, footed bowl was created in 1968 and is a beautiful example of celebrated British potter Lucie Rie's work. The bowl features a conical shape with a flared lip and rests on a narrow, footed base. It is glazed in a soft, mottled gray-green color that is characteristic of Rie's glaze palette.

The 18th-century Korean ritual vessel was created during the Joseon dynasty. It exemplifies the traditional Korean ceramic style known as "Baekja," which is recognized by its milky white color and clear glaze.

The large, footed bowl was created in 1968 and is a beautiful example of celebrated British potter Lucie Rie's work. The bowl features a conical shape with a flared lip and rests on a narrow, footed base. It is glazed in a soft, mottled gray-green color that is characteristic of Rie's glaze palette.

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