Description
I made Shino 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. And this finial is spectacular if I do say so myself.
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 red shino glaze that I make over the pot, and then I pour some more, draping and overlapping.
Next I load the pot with many other pots into my wood burning kiln. We need an entire day to load the 150-200 pots into the kiln and 4 of us to stoke wood for 38 hours. Finally we reach temperatures approximately 2400 degrees F and hotter.
Red Shino Glaze is reddish brown when applied thinly and creamy when thicker. And the glaze beads up and separates where extra thick. I do so appreciate a range of effect across a surface and this pot has it all. And with a spray of ash and carbon trapping to boot. Although the surface is subtle, it is also dynamic, reflecting the atmosphere of the wood kiln.
Use Shino Jar Vase as a vase. Or, use as jar. Accent table, side board, entryway, niche, or shelf.
Add to your collection or bestow on lucky newlyweds or makes a unique and cherished housewarming gift as well.
Wood Fired. 12″ high x 8″ diameter.
