Glazed Earthenware vase incised “Gravelle – Dawson Creek”, ht 9-1/2″ – coll.#131
Some time ago I researched this pottery vase and discovered that “Gravelle” was the surname of a teacher who worked in Northern British Columbia and gave classes in pottery making.
I believe she also may have taught in the Prince Rupert school district, as I recall seeing other “Gravelle” pots with the Prince Rupert location incised.
Unfortunately, I cannot locate the source documents to support my research – if anyone has more information on “Gravelle” please contact me or leave a comment below.
Thanks, Larry
update: I located another Gravelle vase today that was signed “M. Gravelle” and dated 1968, so I’m adding the M.initial to the listing. (Nov 8th 2018)
Recently I saw a coffee set in a thrift store, the signature seems to be Gravelle Dawson Creek.
While researching this set I came across your post. Likely this set was made by the same person who made your vase. The quality style and decoration on this set immediately caught my eye.
I did take pictures and would be happy to pass them along. I can not seem to attach them to this message however if you email me directly I can forward them to you if you wish.
Sincerely,
Mary Blackwell
I knew Mary very well in the late 60’s and have several of her pots. Yes she did give classes. Her and her husband Joe got clay from river banks of (I think Sukunka) and it was used in her clay making ventures. Hope you find this interesting. Larry from Dawson Creek Bc.
My mother, Anne Matheson taught Mary (Auntie Mary to us kids) how to dig clay and use a treadle potters wheel. They were were close friends for years, having first met in North Rolla where my mother was the reacher and Gravelles were farming . When Maty and her husband *Joe Gravelle) moved to the Abbotsford area to farm mink Mary continued her art and opened a roadside studio and shop. I have inherited a large collection of her work , all with her signature glaze. If you are interested in a photo of the collection email me.