Vtg Large Eric O'Leary Tariki Studio Art Pottery MCM Mug Cup 2 Lot Stoneware
Discover the timeless elegance of handcrafted American studio pottery with this rare matched set from Tariki Studio, featuring two stoneware mugs signed by renowned potter Eric O'Leary. Crafted in the spirit of mid-20th-century modernism, these pieces showcase the organic textures and subtle earth tones that define Tariki's legacy. Set Includes: Two (2) handled mugs, both in complementary beige stoneware with natural striations and a matte, speckled finish for a rustic yet refined look. Mugs: Generously sized for comfortable daily use, each with a sturdy ergonomic handle and gently flared rim. Measures approximately 4 inches tall x 3.5 inches wide (handle to opposite side). Holds about 12-14 oz-perfect for your morning coffee, herbal tea, or sharing a cozy drink with a friend. Condition: Excellent vintage pre-owned condition with beautiful patina from gentle use-minor surface variations and subtle crazing add to the artisanal charm. No chips, cracks, or repairs.
Glaze shows warm, earthy undertones with hints of ochre spotting. Marking: Both pieces incised on the base with Eric O'Leary's signature "Tariki" script mark, confirming authenticity.
Origin: Hand-thrown and fired at Tariki Studio, Meriden, New Hampshire, USA. 1970s- early 1980s era based on style, marking and known ownership history.A Brief History of Tariki Studio. Jack, who began working in clay in the 1940s at the School of American Craftsmen alongside pioneers like Bob Turner and Dan Rhodes, drew deep inspiration from a 1967 collaboration with Japanese potter Yu Fugiwara. In 1982, Jack's son Eric O'Leary b. 1949 inherited the studio, later joined by brother Kevin. Under Eric's leadership, Tariki evolved from intimate functional pottery-like this very set-to grand architectural installations integrating clay with steel, water, and natural landscapes.
Today, Tariki Limited LLC continues as a family-run design collective, emphasizing sustainable materials like CO2-absorbing Shikkui plaster, while honoring its roots in humanistic, nature-inspired art. Pieces like these embody that heritage: functional beauty born from the earth, designed to age gracefully in your home.
Why You'll Love It. These aren't just vessels-they're heirlooms that whisper of craftsmanship and quiet luxury. Enjoy one for your brew on a crisp fall morning, and gift the other to a pottery enthusiast. A collector's gem for fans of mid-century modern, studio pottery, or American Art.