Mid-century American ceramic corset-shaped vase with blue and white glaze.

Ceramic vases have been produced for millennia, serving both functional and decorative purposes across various cultures. The mid-20th century saw a resurgence in decorative ceramic arts, with many American potteries experimenting with new forms and glazes, often influenced by Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern aesthetics. These pieces were popular for home decor and as collectibles.

This particular vase's hourglass or corset-like silhouette is a design characteristic that emerged in the mid-20th century, often associated with playful or stylized representations of the human form. The blue and white color scheme is a classic combination, and the flared rim suggests it might have been intended for holding small items like hat pins or as a bud vase.