Trial glaze Rookwood Mahogany (Standard glaze on red clay) vase loaded with Tiger Eye effect done by William McDonald in 1898. Marks include the company logo, which indicates the date, Special shape number S 1363 and Trial notation 1 T as well. Height 8 1/4 inches. Tiger Eye was a sensation when first seen at Rookwood in 1884 and for many years, the company tried to produce the effect but could not do so consistently. By 1898, Rookwood had seemingly solved the problem but perhaps too late to commercialize on it as many companies were producing crystalline glazes by then. We see a series of vases done on this form listed in Burt for the year 1898, all done by William McDonald and all with strong, overall Tiger Eye. There are at least 5 listed in Burt on pages 126 and 128 (this vase included) and all carry the notation "fine TE." There is little decoration on this vase save the amazing Tiger Eye which covers 35% of the surface. McDonald has added several vertical etched lines to the surface around which the Tiger Eye seems to blossom. This vase was a gift to the family of the consignor from one of Rookwood's last Cincinnati owners. Tiger Eye remains one of the most beautiful crystalline glazes ever made with its elusive, liquid quality and this is one of the finest examples.

Faint crazing