Description
I made Copper Jar Vase on the potters wheel using an iron bearing stoneware clay and threw a lid to match, using calipers for measurements. I give the lid a flange that drops down slightly inside the neck of the pot and adds stability. And for a unique and playful finial, I twist a ridged stretch of clay into a knot!
I approach making finials and decorative handles much as I approach my brushwork, striving for a fluid, spontaneous motion, which captures the energy and honesty of the moment.
When the pot is completely dry, I fire it to about 1800 degrees in my electric kiln. This is called a bisque fire which renders the pot into a “ceramic” that will accept glaze easily.
Now I apply surface treatment. First I pour a copper green glaze that I make over the pot and then I pour some more, draping and overlapping. I leave a portion of the lower pot bare in order to expose the rich red-brown of the bare clay and create a contrast with the glaze. Also, if the glaze decides to move it will have some room to roam.
Next I load the pot with many other pots into my wood burning kiln. It takes an entire day to load the 150-200 pots into the kiln. And 4 of us stoke wood for 38 hours until we reach temperatures approximately 2400 degrees F and hotter.
I hope the Copper green glaze will flash with red when the atmosphere in the kiln is reduced. And in this case red areas mingle with the greens creating a modulated and striking surface.
Use Copper Jar Vase as vase. Or use as jar. Accent table, side board, entryway, niche, or shelf.
Add to your collection or bestow on lucky newlyweds. Makes a unique and cherished housewarming gift as well.
14″ High x 9″ diameter
Compare to Element Jar Vase
