Hand thrown pottery is an ancient and revered craft that continues to captivate artists and collectors alike. With its roots tracing back thousands of years, this pottery technique has been cherished for both its functionality and artistry. From simple bowls and mugs to intricate vases and sculptures, hand thrown pottery reflects the delicate balance between form, function, and personal expression.
In this article, we’ll explore the art of hand thrown pottery, its history, the techniques involved, and why this timeless craft continues to inspire modern artisans and collectors.
What Is Hand thrown pottery?
Hand thrown pottery refers to the process of shaping clay on a potter’s wheel using manual techniques. The term “throwing” comes from the Old English word “thrawan,” which means to twist or turn, describing the movement used in the process of creating pottery. This method of creating pottery involves centering the clay on a rotating wheel and using the potter’s hands to shape it into functional or decorative objects.
What sets hand thrown pottery apart is the hands-on, artistic touch that each piece carries. No two pieces of hand thrown pottery are exactly alike, making each creation unique and personal.
The History of Hand thrown pottery
Pottery is one of the oldest human crafts, with archaeological evidence showing that people have been creating pottery since as early as 29,000 BCE. The earliest forms of pottery were often hand-built without the use of wheels, but around 4000 BCE, the invention of the potter’s wheel revolutionized the craft. This allowed for more symmetrical, consistent shapes and faster production.
Hand thrown pottery flourished in ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, and China, each of which developed distinct styles and techniques. The craft continued to evolve through the ages, and today, modern potters continue to embrace traditional hand-thrown techniques while incorporating contemporary designs and innovations.
The Process of Hand thrown pottery
Creating hand thrown pottery is a multi-step process that requires skill, patience, and creativity. Here is an overview of the key stages involved:
1. Preparing the Clay
Before the throwing process can begin, the potter must first prepare the clay. This involves kneading or “wedging” the clay to remove air bubbles and ensure that the consistency is smooth and even. Properly wedged clay is easier to work with and less likely to crack during shaping or firing.
Different types of clay are used depending on the desired final product, including earthenware, stoneware, and porcelain. Each clay type has its own unique properties, such as texture, firing temperature, and color after firing.
2. Centering the Clay
Once the clay is prepared, the next step is centering it on the potter’s wheel. This is a crucial part of the process, as the clay must be perfectly centered in order to create a symmetrical piece. The potter uses both hands to press and shape the spinning clay, gradually forming it into a centered mound.
Centering the clay requires experience and control. It can be one of the more challenging steps for beginners, as unevenly centered clay will result in a wobbly, misshapen piece.
3. Throwing and Shaping
Once the clay is centered, the potter begins the process of shaping the clay into the desired form. This involves applying pressure with the hands and fingers to the spinning clay, slowly pulling and stretching it into shape. The potter may use various hand positions and tools to control the thickness, height, and curvature of the piece.
Common shapes created on the wheel include bowls, vases, cups, and plates, but the possibilities are endless. Potters often experiment with different forms, textures, and techniques to create unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.
4. Trimming and Finishing
After the piece has been shaped, it needs to be dried to a “leather-hard” state before any trimming or finishing can be done. At this stage, the potter can trim excess clay from the base, add decorative elements, or refine the shape.
This is also the stage where handles, spouts, or other features may be added to the piece, depending on its function. For example, a mug may have a handle attached, or a pitcher may have a spout formed.
5. Drying and Bisque Firing
Once the pottery is fully shaped and trimmed, it needs to dry completely before being fired in a kiln. This can take several days, depending on the size and thickness of the piece. It’s essential that the pottery is completely dry before firing, as any remaining moisture can cause the piece to crack or explode in the kiln.
The first firing, known as the “bisque firing,” hardens the clay and prepares it for glazing. During bisque firing, the pottery is heated at a lower temperature than the final firing, which removes all water and carbon from the clay, leaving it porous and ready to absorb glaze.
6. Glazing
After bisque firing, the potter applies a glaze to the piece. Glaze is a liquid mixture of minerals that, when fired, creates a smooth, glass-like coating on the pottery. This not only adds color and texture but also makes the pottery waterproof and more durable.
There are countless glaze techniques and finishes, ranging from glossy to matte, transparent to opaque, and even crackled or textured surfaces. Potters often experiment with different glaze recipes and firing techniques to achieve unique effects.
7. Final Firing
The final step is the glaze firing, during which the pottery is fired at a higher temperature to melt the glaze and fuse it to the surface of the clay. The temperature and duration of the firing will depend on the type of clay and glaze used, but this firing process typically transforms the piece into its final, durable form.
Once the pottery cools down, it’s ready to be used or displayed.
The Artistic Appeal of Hand thrown pottery
One of the most captivating aspects of hand thrown pottery is its artisanal quality. Each piece is crafted by hand, and even slight imperfections or variations in the glaze are considered part of its charm. In a world dominated by mass-produced goods, hand thrown pottery stands out for its uniqueness and the personal touch of the artist.
Many people are drawn to the tactile nature of hand thrown pottery. Unlike factory-made ceramics, these pieces often have subtle textures and weight that give them a more organic, human feel. The act of throwing clay on the wheel is also a deeply meditative and creative process, allowing potters to connect with the material and bring their artistic vision to life.
Types of Hand thrown pottery
Hand thrown pottery comes in a wide variety of forms, from functional items like dinnerware to purely decorative pieces. Here are a few common types of hand thrown pottery:
- Functional Pottery: This includes everyday items like bowls, plates, mugs, teapots, and vases. Functional pottery is designed to be used, but it often doubles as a work of art, with careful attention to form, balance, and aesthetics.
- Sculptural Pottery: Some potters focus on creating sculptural pieces that are more decorative than functional. These pieces may explore abstract shapes, intricate details, or artistic expressions that push the boundaries of traditional pottery.
- Decorative Pottery: Decorative hand thrown pottery often features detailed carvings, patterns, or glazes that are meant to be displayed. These pieces may be purely ornamental or designed for occasional use.
- Ceramic Art Installations: In contemporary art, some ceramic artists use hand thrown pottery techniques to create large-scale installations, incorporating multiple pieces to form a cohesive artwork.
Why Hand thrown pottery Matters Today
In today’s fast-paced, industrialized world, hand thrown pottery represents a return to slow craftsmanship and authenticity. Each piece is a reflection of the artist’s skill, creativity, and passion for the material. This personal connection between maker and object imbues hand thrown pottery with a sense of value and significance that extends beyond its functional purpose.
Moreover, hand thrown pottery appeals to individuals seeking sustainability and mindful consumption. Many consumers are now turning to handcrafted items that are made with care and have a lower environmental impact than mass-produced goods. Pottery made from natural materials, like clay and earth-based glazes, can be part of a sustainable lifestyle that values quality over quantity.
Conclusion
Hand thrown pottery is more than just a craft; it’s an art form that combines technical skill with personal expression. From the careful preparation of the clay to the final firing in the kiln, each step in the process contributes to the creation of a unique and functional piece of art. Whether you’re a potter honing your skills or an admirer of handcrafted goods, hand thrown pottery is a timeless craft that continues to inspire and delight people around the world.
In a world where technology and automation are increasingly dominant, hand thrown pottery stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of handmade artistry. Each piece tells a story, not only of the clay from which it is formed but of the human hands that shaped it.