accent vases

Shaped like a traditional molcajete--the stone vessel used since ancient times for grinding or crushing spices and other ingredients--this mortar and pestle set is meant to be used as a bowl, a saucer or as a decorative accent that will certainly make a statement.

Crafted from volcanic basalt by the artisans of the Comonfort Group in Mexico, the molcajete needs to be "cured" before using to eliminate any stone residues. This can be done by placing a few dried beans, corn or rice in the bowl and grinding them with the pestle until pulverized. Allow the pulverized grain to sit for 15 minutes, hand-wash the bowl, let it dry and then it will be ready to use.

In this sublime alabaster decorative vase, majestic elephants march around the core while intricate vines and leaves adorn the top and bottom. Meticulously carved by hand, this fabulous home accent from India’s Gulaam Rasool stands as a captivating focal point, lending a touch of sculptural grace to any room.

This small ceramic vase is the handiwork of the Contreras Family, who work in the traditional majolica style to craft beautiful home accents. The vase is painted by hand with brilliant golden sunflowers.

This spirited dog-themed ceramic holder from Guatemala’s Jose Arriola proves that storage solutions don't have to be boring. The artful hand-painting creates a desk accent that's both practical and personality-packed, ready to house your favorite writing instruments or transform into a utensil organizer, toothbrush station or miniature decorative vase. It's the kind of accessory that makes you smile every time you reach for a pen.

Colorful and elegant, this flower vase with a round bowl and a graceful, fluted neck is handcrafted by Mexican artisan Topiltzin Castro in the Talavera style. The exterior is painted in a trellis motif in paprika red, accented with warm white. The background is left unglazed, allowing the matte, natural beige color of the ceramic to show through. The rim is painted a warm brown.

Splendid motifs take over this fabulous decorative mini vase handcrafted with traditional Oaxacan barro negro or "black clay" by Mexican artisans Fernando and Magali Pedro. The unique hand-carved ceramic vase with a reed straw base will be the perfect accent anywhere at home.