Pottery dates back thousands of years and is one of the most ancient human crafts. It includes making items out of clay and then heating them at high temperatures to make them strong and long-lasting. The collection includes pottery items such as bowls, plates, and cups for daily use, along with decorative pieces and art objects.
Selecting the correct type of clay is usually the first step in the pottery-making process. Artisans then knead the raw material to eliminate air bubbles and guarantee a consistent texture. Once prepared, they can mold the clay using a variety of methods. The oldest technique is wheel throwing, which involves a potter using a rotating wheel to mold the clay. Another popular technique is hand construction, which involves coiling, pinching, and slab building.
After shaping the pottery items, artisans allow them to dry until they reach a leather-hard stage, when the pieces are solid but still hold some moisture. At this point, artisans can sculpt, polish, or refine them in other ways. Once the pieces dry completely, artisans place them in a kiln for their initial firing, known as bisque firing. This first firing eliminates any remaining moisture and changes the clay into earthware.
Artisans glaze the bisque ware with a liquid mixture that transforms into a glossy surface after they fire it again. Glazing not only enhances the appearance of pottery with different colors and finishes but also improves its functionality by making it impervious to liquids.
The last stage is the glaze firing, which involves raising the temperature of the items beyond what was done in the bisque firing. This procedure transforms the clay into a glass-like material and fuses the glaze, creating a final product that combines aesthetics and functionality.
Pottery holds importance in numerous cultures and frequently mirrors the artistic customs and everyday activities of society. Since ancient times, pottery has remained an important and valued craft, blending practicality with artistic creativity, from ancient times to contemporary makers.
Copyright: All the photos and text in this post are the copyright of Sathish Kumar C R and Creative Hut Institute of Photography and Flim. Their reproduction, full or part, is forbidden without the explicit approval of the rightful owners.
