THE TEAR BOTTLE PROJECT

'Tear bottles' have an ancient heritage.

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Used by ancient Greeks, they are also referred to in the Bible.

Pilgrims of old carried tear-shaped vessels on long journeys. 

Victorians caught tears in vessels and waited for them to evaporate,

symbolising an end to their mourning. 

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In 2015 ceramic artist Deborah Tompsett presented her installation

‘A Thousand Bottles of Tears’

in various parts of inside Chichester Cathedral.

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The work received wide acclaim and many positive comments

from visitors from across the world.

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Each bottle is distinctly individual,

fashioned by Deborah on a traditional potter's wheel.

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The bottles are made from fist sized lumps of mixed clay,

with sizes varying from a baby's fist to a large male hand. 

An individual's fist is estimated to be of equal size to the heart.

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Since 1025 interest in this ancient tradition has been growing

prompting various artists and charity activists to join the journey. 

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The powerful emotional responses that the concept of tear bottles can evoke 

has led filmmaker John Forrest and Deborah to explore possibilities for

charitable work linked with mental health.

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Please join the conversation.

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