This colorful “Mr. Teapot” sculpture by Jerry Berta has multiple puns and meanings. It includes a teapot (man’s head), is a self portrait, and refers to Mr. T the actor. Berta is a teapot maker and known for his “Diner” teapots. He also restored and operated a vintage diner. Many of his ceramic works feature neon lights similar to those used on vintage diners. See the row of diner stools on the man’s shirt?
CeramicsJerry Berta
Jerry Berta
Mr. Teapot
Jerry Berta (American, b. 1951)
Mr. Teapot 2001
low-fire clay, underglazes, metallic lusters
20 x 21.75 x 9.75″
Kamm Collection 2008.5.1
Photo: courtesy of the artist.