Description
I made Taos Big Jar on the potter’s wheel using an iron bearing stoneware clay, which fires to a toasty tan. And I trimmed a slight foot giving it a floating effect. Textured lug handles add dimension to the piece and make it easy to transfer . I bead the rim to give the pot extra protection against chipping. And the lid is seated with a drop down flange. Ridged texture on the top of the lid with a knotted finial for interest and easy gripping.
I bisque fire Taos Big Jar, dry-foot the bottom, and now it’s ready for glazing. First, I dip the upper 3/4 of the piece in a Floating Blue Glaze that I make. Next, I dip the bottom 1/4 in a copper green glaze that make. Now, it’s time for pouring a bit of cream rust glaze that I make. But just in areas where some glaze will overlap the blue and some the green. Lastly, I dip the rim in red gold glaze and trail and daub the same glaze here and there.
And voila! A dynamic surface referencing the natural environment of Northern New Mexico. Yet every piece is unique and this piece has bigger cloud areas and less of the bright blue that is produced by the red gold overlap. The blue is darker in this case, more of a midnight blue.
Stash your favorite breads or cookies or treats in this beautiful jar. It will sit neatly on your countertop, sideboard, or table. Store cereals, grains, or oatmeal too. Even dog biscuits! Bake and/or serve a big batch of something! Use as a soup tureen. Makes a stunning display piece when not in service.
