The Piece

A small, sculptural copper bud vase with a slender neck and rounded, pear-shaped body, bearing a deeply developed natural verdigris patina acquired over more than a century. Modest in scale yet commanding in presence, this vessel exemplifies the quiet utility and material honesty of late 19th-century domestic metalwork.

The surface tells its story without intervention. Layers of oxidation move organically across the form, shifting from warm brown to dark umber, punctuated by emerald and turquoise verdigris that has settled into the metal over decades. This is not a decorative finish. It is time, made visible.

Design & Construction

→ Hand-formed copper body
→ Narrow cylindrical neck with subtly flared lip
→ Bulbous lower body for stability
→ Flat base with accumulated oxidation consistent with age
→ Naturally developed verdigris patina throughout

The form is restrained and purposeful, absent of applied decoration or stylistic excess. Subtle asymmetry and surface irregularities suggest hand-forming or early spinning techniques typical of utilitarian copperwork in the late 19th century.

The patina is layered and uneven, with oxidation concentrated where moisture and handling would naturally occur. No evidence of artificial coloring, sealants, or later surface treatment is present.

Historical Context

In the late 1800s, copper vessels such as this were commonplace in households across Europe and North America. Used for holding flowers, oils, or small household necessities, these objects were valued for durability rather than display. Their beauty was incidental, emerging slowly through use.

At the time, copper was appreciated for its practicality and longevity, not its aesthetic potential. The verdigris patina that now defines this vase would have been an unintended result of years of exposure to air, moisture, and touch. Today, that same surface is what elevates the piece from functional object to sculptural artifact.

This vase reflects a period before decoration was prioritized over material, when objects were allowed to age honestly and without correction.

Condition

Good antique condition, consistent with age and use.

→ Structurally sound with no cracks or splits
→ Heavy surface oxidation and verdigris throughout
→ No evidence of modern cleaning or polishing
→ Stable patina with no active corrosion

The surface wear is intrinsic to the piece and essential to its character. Cleaning or polishing is neither recommended nor desirable.

Why It Belongs in Your Home

This vase does not compete with its surroundings. It anchors them.

It belongs on a bookshelf, a desk, or a side table where its surface can be read slowly, in changing light. It holds a single stem beautifully, but stands just as confidently on its own. The appeal lies not in perfection, but in endurance.

This is an object for those who value material truth. Something that has survived by being useful, and now endures by being seen.

Details

→ Origin: Possibly European or American
→ Estimated Date: Late 19th century (c. 1880–1900)
→ Material: Solid copper
→ Finish: Naturally developed verdigris patina
→ Height: approx. 5–6 in
→ One-of-a-kind antique example