Roycroft Bud Vase (“Vasette”)
East Aurora, New York, c. 1900–1910
Copper
Maker’s mark: Extremely rare early Roycroft mark (tiny cross and orb within a box)
Dimensions: 2⅛ in. diam. × 2⅝ in. h
This small hammered copper bud vase, or “vasette,” was produced by the Roycroft community in East Aurora, New York, around 1900–1910. Its flaring base, punctuated by raised rivet-like bosses, gives the modest form a quietly architectural presence. Originally, it would have included a delicate ruffled glass liner—an example of which is illustrated in Roycroft Art Metal by Kevin McConnell (1999, p. 134).
Of particular note is the mark: an extremely rare early variant of the Roycroft insignia described by Via and Searl (1994, p. 92) as “an extremely tiny cross and orb enclosed within a box, almost indiscernible to the naked eye.” Found on very few surviving objects, this mark remains undocumented within the formal Roycroft hallmark chronology.
This modest yet elegant form exemplifies the Roycroft dedication to handcraft and the Arts and Crafts ideal of imbuing everyday objects with integrity and beauty.
Penny for scale of Vasette and makers mark.
