Jar with Chongo by Romero Britto

Jar with Chongo

Romero Britto · 1998

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“Stop and admire this earthenware jar's explosion of color and pattern. It merges traditional pottery with a modern, pop art sensibility, making it a unique and joyful object.”

ABOUT THIS WORK

This earthenware jar, created in 1998, immediately grabs attention with its vibrant, almost cartoonish style. A large, stylized face dominates the vessel, rendered in bold outlines and filled with a kaleidoscope of patterns and colors. The surface gleams in places, hinting at the gilt used in its creation, which adds a celebratory, almost luxurious feel to the piece. The jar's form is robust and rounded, a traditional shape transformed by a distinctly contemporary aesthetic that blends elements of pop art and cubism. This piece, with its energetic patterns and bright palette, embodies a playful spirit, inviting viewers to find joy in its unexpected fusion of traditional craft and modern design.

DETAILS
Artist
Romero Britto
Date
1998
Medium
Earthenware with slip and gilt
Location
Art Institute of Chicago
Dimensions
43.4 × 35.9 × 36 cm (17 1/8 × 14 3/16 × 14 3/16 in.)
Collection
Arts of the Americas
Culture
New Mexico
Credit line
Mrs. Leonard S. Florsheim, Jr. Fund
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What to Notice

Five details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.

Jar with Chongo
01

The large face on the jar, composed of geometric shapes and bold lines.

02

The intricate patterns filling each section of the face and the jar's body.

03

The way the gilt catches the light, adding a subtle shimmer.

04

The 'chongo' hairstyle, a prominent bun on top of the head.

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THE ARTIST

Romero Britto

1963 · Brazil

Romero Britto, the Brazilian neo-pop artist, transforms cubism and graffiti into vibrant expressions of joy, famously designing for Absolut Vodka and Disney.

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