Sienna Large Terracotta Vase

The Sienna Large Terracotta Vase from Solae Design is a substantial vessel in unglazed terracotta, left in the natural fired colour of the clay. It is scaled as a floor or console piece rather than a table one — large enough to hold its own in a room without an arrangement in it, which is how most people will end up using it.

Unglazed terracotta ages rather than staying fixed. The porous surface takes on marks, mineral bloom and a deepening tone over time, which is the point of the material in a zen or wabi-inspired setting: the object is expected to record its own use rather than resist it. Left outdoors it weathers faster and more visibly; kept indoors the change is slow, even and largely uniform across the body.

Suited to a tea room, an entry, a covered terrace, or beside a fireplace. Because the body is porous, use an inner liner for fresh water arrangements and stand it on a saucer or mat if it sits on timber or stone that could mark. In freezing climates bring it inside — absorbed water expands and will crack unglazed terracotta. Because the walls are thick and the body is large, expect it to be heavy to move once filled.

• Material: unglazed natural terracotta
• Scale: large, floor or console piece
• Surface develops patina with age
• Suited to indoor or covered outdoor use
• Use an inner liner for fresh water
• Stand on a saucer to protect surfaces
• Bring indoors before freezing conditions
• Wipe with a dry brush — avoid detergents