Vase

This vase demonstrates Stone’s consummate ability to combine elements associated with different historical periods, resulting in a beautifully unified modern expression. The overall design and delicacy of the piece recalls the Art Nouveau style, whereas the flat fluting was a common feature on Baroque art.

This text has been adapted from "Silver of the Americas, 1600-2000," edited by Jeannine Falino and Gerald W.R. Ward, published in 2008 by the MFA. Complete references can be found in that publication.

Arthur Stone was perhaps one of the United States' most important silversmiths of the Arts and Crafts era. Born in England and trained through the traditional apprentice system, Stone also took evening courses on design. He became a strong proponent of William Morris's Arts and Crafts principles, and his search to implement those ideals brought him to the United States in 1884. After working for commercial retailers, Stone opened his own shop in Gardner, Massachusetts, in 1901.As the head of his shop, Stone was finally able to put his theories on collaborative craftsmanship and healthy working conditions into practice. He mentored his employees, teaching them secrets of the craft, encouraging their study of past cultures at the Museum of Fine Arts and other institutions, and sponsoring their membership in the Society of Arts and Crafts, Boston. He allowed artisans to add their mark next to his on the pieces they created, and he shared the workshop's profits with his employees on a semiannual basis.An active member of the SACB, Stone was widely admired for his leadership and pioneering efforts and for his restrained designs that many called expressly "American." He looked to both the European and American past for inspiration, enhancing his knowledge of historic styles by studying the collections of the MFA, including taking measurements and reproducing some works. This vase reflects Stone's careful study: its vertical fluting is borrowed from the early Baroque style; wispy flowers and tracery are expressive of the sinuous Art Nouveau style; and the bold, jewel-like medallions evoke medieval works. These ornamental elements also complement the shape of the vase, accentuating its vertical thrust and subtle swelling toward the rim.This text was adapted from Ward, et al., MFA Highlights: American Decorative Arts & Sculpture (Boston, 2006) available at www.mfashop.com/mfa-publications.html.