With a pronounced spout that resembles the beak of a bird – and hence its name – the Beak series of short and tall carafes by Mottoform founder and multidisciplinary artist-designer Elizabeth Salonen is at once whimsical and refined. The handmade slip-cast ceramics feature a texturally soft white matte glazed exterior and clear gloss interior and can be used to serve both hot and cold liquids (as well as a vase for fresh blooms).
The striking vessels will make their official debut in September when they grace the tables at Marrow restaurant for the Tablescape Detroit event during Detroit Month of Design. A “sensorial dining experience” that aims to merge food with craft, the evening will include a five-course meal served on sculptural one-of-a-kind wares made exclusively by Salonen and fellow ceramic artist Claire Thibodeau to “challenge and inspire” the chefs. Afterwards, the Beak series will be available for purchase in a limited run of approximately 50 (with the potential for future custom orders).