Doug Wylie 1985 Signed Whale Sculptural Tea Set

A mother and calf breach through sea-foam glaze, their lifted intertwined tails transforming the handle of this large teapot into a piece of coastal sculpture. Doug Wylie signed and dated the work in 1985, during his original ClayFish Ceramics period of 1979–1989 and before his later turn to bronze. His study of whales in Hawaii with the Center for Whale Studies keeps the marine subject rooted in close observation rather than borrowed motif. The complete group includes the 11.5-inch-wide lidded teapot, a creamer, and a tall goblet, with flowing glaze and hand-worked detail carrying the story across all four components. The set is immaculate, and its survival together preserves the domestic installation Wylie conceived: vessel, sea, and family held in one composition. Individual pieces from this seafoam series have sold for over $1,000, reflecting the rarity and craftsmanship of Wylie's work during this pivotal ceramic period. This set—rarely found intact—represents both a functional tea service and a sculptural statement piece that commands attention on any table or shelf. Complete the Look as Styled by pairing the 2017 goblets and the Nancy Calhoun Light Blue!