The colorful earthenwares known as Majolica are popular once again, part of the nostalgic revival of Victorian taste in interior decoration. Majolica's long history begins with Italian Renaissance tin-glazed wares; over the centuries its styles and techniques spread to France and England. With the advent of mechanization, the wares could be mass produced. Majolica became popular among the rising middle class in England, Europe, and the United States. This book presents a new analysis of Majolica set against its cultural-historical background. Hundreds of forms in dozens of patterns, especially American and British ware with a sampling of European pieces, are displayed in over 550 color photographs. The text presents new research and the examples are individually identified by style, pattern, maker, size, and date. Short histories of the manufacturers are presented as they relate to Majolica wares. The up-to-date price guide will be a valuable tool for collectors and dealers.

This book presents a thorough look at the multitude of fascinating and beautiful ceramic forms produced by the British potter George Jones and his firm, including majolica wares and "Abbey" blue and white transfer printed ceramics. Over 700 color photographs amply display the diverse table, tea, toilet, and ornamental ware types produced by George Jones and his manufactory from the mid-nineteenth century well into the twentieth. A detailed history recording George Jones's life as a potter, the contributions of his family members, and those of a number of artisans who designed and decorated the firm's distinctive wares provides hours of absorbing and enlightening reading as well. To help readers determine the age of their George Jones wares with accuracy, registration dates for many of the patterns and ceramic shapes are provided, along with the various manufacturer's marks and their dates of usage. Values for the wares, a detailed bibliography, and several appendices round out the book Geoffrey Godden has called "...the ultimate work on this Stoke firm."

This book adds more than 750 color photos to the record of materials on Noritake collectibles presented in Spain's 1997 book on this subject-a work with more than 1,200 color photos. This book, like the previous one, is comprehensive. It covers non-dinnerware porcelains made by the Noritake Company between about 1908 and the 1970s. The emphasis, however, is on the 1920s and works with Art Deco characteristics. The backstamp materials have been expanded, updated, and made very user-friendly. In addition, there is a substantial and thought-provoking essay on the historical and cultural roots of Art Deco, in general, along with a thorough discussion of the distinguishing features of Art Deco Noritake fancy line porcelains of the 1920s.

Potters and Patrons in Edo Period Japan: Takatori Ware and the Kuroda Domain traces the development of one of Japan's best-documented ceramic types, from its beginnings around 1600 until the abolition of the domain system in 1871. Using historical records, archaeological material from early kilns and consumer sites, and the results of comparative chemical analysis, this study explores the operation of Takatori as the official ceramic workshop of the Kuroda, lords of one of the largest domains in Japan. Spanning cultural, aesthetic, economic and practical aspects, this book presents Takatori ware as an ideal archetype with which to compare developments in elite ceramics in other parts of Japan throughout the Edo period. In addition to its scholarly examination of the operation of a domain-sponsored ceramics workshop over more than 250 years, the book includes illustrations of examples from each of the seven Takatori workshop locations, including beautiful pieces that have never before appeared in print.

The Conservation and Restoration of Ceramics brings together the wide range of current information relevant to the practising conservator. The book opens with a discussion of the fundamental nature of the ceramic medium, information which is of primary importance when selecting treatments or considering preventive conservation measures. Details on techniques are given in a series of chapters covering the restoration and conservation processes, but the emphasis is on the basic principles involved in the choice of materials and methods. The nature and properties of materials commonly in use are fully discussed and guidance is given on the facilities and equipment needed. Also covered in the book are old restoration materials and methods, the ethics of ceramics conservation, examination and recording, display treatments and emergency procedures. Now in paperback, this book will be invaluable to practising conservators and readers of conservation as well as of interest to museum curators and collectors.

From drippy and crackle to ash and lichen glazes, experienced ceramicist Linda Bloomfield guides you through the world of special effect glazes. Beautifully illustrated with pieces from both emerging and established potters that showcase stunning copper oxide-blues, metallic bronzes and manganese-pink crystal glazes, Special Effect Glazes is packed full of recipes to try out: from functional oilspot glazes using iron oxide, to explosive lava glazes. In this informative handbook discover how you can create these fantastic effects and learn the basic chemistry behind glazes in order to adjust and experiment with your unique pieces. Discussed are materials and stains, how to find them and how they affect the colour and texture of the glaze, alongside practical fixes to familiar glaze-making problems. Special Effect Glazes is essential for any ceramicist interested in creating eye-catching glazes and wanting to develop their knowledge of glaze-making, or experiment with their own formulas to achieve the perfect finish.

The Ceramics Reader is an impressive editorial collection of essays and text extracts, covering every discipline within ceramics, past and present. Tackling such fundamental questions as "why are ceramics important?", the book also considers the field from a range of perspectives - as a cultural activity or metaphor, as a vehicle for propaganda, within industry and museums, and most recently as part of the 'expanded field' as a fine art medium and hub for ideas. Newly commissioned material features prominently alongside existing scholarship, to ensure an international and truly comprehensive look at ceramics.

In Courtly Mediators, Leah R. Clark investigates the exchange of a range of materials and objects, including metalware, ceramic drug jars, Chinese porcelain, and aromatics, across the early modern Italian, Mamluk, and Ottoman courts. She provides a new narrative that places Aragonese Naples at the center of an international courtly culture, where cosmopolitanism and the transcultural flourished, and in which artists, ambassadors, and luxury goods actively participated. By articulating how and why transcultural objects were exchanged, displayed, copied, and framed, she provides a new methodological framework that transforms our understanding of the Italian Renaissance court. Clark's volume provides a multi-sensorial, innovative reading of Italian Renaissance art. It demonstrates that the early modern culture of collecting was more than a humanistic enterprise associated with the European roots of the Renaissance. Rather, it was sustained by interactions with global material cultures from the Islamic world and beyond.

This comprehensive two-volume catalogue covers the outstanding collection of English and French medieval stained glass in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Written by curator Jane Hayward, the catalogue is posthumously published as Part I in the Corpus Vitrearum series and represents the culmination of Hayward's pioneering work in the field. 123 panels are examined in depth, ranging from 12th-century border ornaments from the Abbey Church of Saint-Denis to early 16th-century English Passion glass. The catalogue is illustrated with over 500 black and white reproductions and 40 colour plates. It includes discussions on provenance, collection history, dating, style, and iconography, as well as detailed descriptions, restoration charts, and considerations of the current condition of each panel.

A beautifully illustrated showcase of the rich and varied ceramic tradition of Iran Featuring a broad selection of objects from one of the most distinguished collections of Iranian art, this volume brings together over 1,000 years of Persian Islamic pottery. With more than 500 illustrations, authoritative technical treatises, and insightful commentary, Ceramics of Iran assembles a collection of rarely seen treasures from the Persian world and presents a collective history of its renowned ceramic tradition. Included among its comprehensive catalogue entries are numerous translations of the object's inscriptions, providing readers with a richer and more detailed understanding of the cultural heritage from which these items are derived. In addition, the book contains new research and material from previously unknown sites. Featuring all new photography of nearly 250 objects, Ceramics of Iran brings the extraordinary contributions of Persian art into a wider historical context, along with a wealth of images to demonstrate the full scope of its intricate beauty. Distributed for the Sarikhani Collection

The evolution and proliferation of plain and predominantly wheel-made pottery presents a characteristic feature of the societies of the Near East and Eastern Mediterranean since the fourth millennium B.C. This plain pottery has received little detailed archaeological attention in comparison to aesthetically more pleasing and chronologically sensitive decorated traditions. Yet, their simplicity and standardization suggest they are products of craft specialists, the result of high-volume production, and therefore important in understanding the social systems in early complex societies. This volume-reevaluates the role and significance of plain pottery traditions from both historically specific perspectives and from a comparative point of view;-examines the uses and functions of this pottery in relation to social negotiation and group identity formation;-helps scholars understand cross-regional similarities in development and use.

Sea Glass Crafts includes twenty step-by-step projects for you to create beautiful works with your collection of sea glass. Accompanying each project are beautiful full-color photographs which visually aid readers in the instructions as well as display the finished product. Sea glass is the beautiful result of broken glass being naturally polished and smoothed by the ocean's currents for extended periods of time. These beautiful jewels become weathered and frosted from abrasion and erosion in salt water, giving them a distinctly beautiful, jewel-like appearance that is perfect for all sorts of crafting! From jewelry to other lavish lifestyle crafts, this book will give skills needed to learn the art of creating beautiful homemade pieces: Basic Flowers Sea Glass Shadow Box Gel Candle with Sea Glass Terra Cotta Pot Candle Holder Memory Locket Bird Bath Bedside Table Sea Glass Wine Stoppers Sea Glass earrings Napkin Rings Sea Glass Wreath Picture Snowman Ornament And more! Sea glass can be purchased in bulk online, but it is way more fun to collect on your own. On your next trip to the beach, when you find yourself swimming in these treasures, be sure to utilize the lessons in this book to create something truly homemade, unique, and beautiful. It's a perfect activity for anyone interested in jewelry-making or crafting, or for someone looking to learn a new hobby.

The human figure in sculpture is a powerful form, capable of great expression and depth. Sculpting the figure in any medium is a rewarding practice, but one that presents special challenges for the maker. Tanya Russell, founder and principal of the Art Academy in London, details the whole creative process for sculpting the figure, from the fundamental conceptual and practical considerations through to the finished and presented work. She covers essential tools and equipment, methods for building armatures, and the processes for creating not only realistic, but also abstract and expressive figures, in a variety of styles and materials. Techniques are supported by practical exercises with step-by-step instructions and images. The book is filled with the inspiring works of contemporary sculptors, all of whom are tutors, students, or alumni of the Art Academy. Modelling and Sculpting the Figure is an essential companion for beginners and established artists alike.

A stunning book on kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with precious metals to highlight its history beautifully. A broken pot is made whole again, and within its golden repair we see a world of meaning. Kintsugi is the art of embracing imperfection. In Western cultures, the aim of repair has been to make the broken item 'as good as new'. Kintsugi on the other hand, is a Japanese art that leaves an obvious repair - one that may appear fragile, but which actually makes the restored ceramic piece stronger, more beautiful, and more valuable than before. Leaving clear, bold, visible lines with the appearance of solid gold, it never hides the story of the object's damage. Kintsugi traces memory, bringing together the moment of destruction and the gold seams of repair through finely-honed skills and painstaking, time-consuming labour in the creation of a new pot from the old. There is a story to be told with every crack, every chip. This story inevitably leads to kintsugi's greatest strength. an intimate metaphoric narrative of loss and recovery, breakage and restoration, tragedy and the ability to overcome it. A kintsugi repair speaks of individuality and uniqueness, fortitude and resilience, and the beauty to be found in survival. Kintsugi leads us to a respectful and appreciative acceptance of hardship and ageing. Author Bonnie Kemske explores kintsugi's metaphorical power as well as exploring the technical and practical aspects of the art, meeting with artists and ceramists in Japan and the US to discuss their personal connection to this intricate technique. With the inclusion of diary entries, personal stories, and in-depth exploration of its origin and symbolism, this book shows kintsugi's metaphoric strength as well as its striking aesthetic, making it a unique and powerful art form that can touch our lives.

A comprehensive guide with recipes for making your own lustres and techniques for applying and firing them. A lustre is a thin layer of metal which is deposited onto the surface of the pot during firing and which produces a lustrous surface. Lustres are very sought after, fabulous surfaces which can lure you in and keep you spellbound. They can be coloured as golds, coppers, reds and blues, or have a colourless sheen like mother of pearl. Although lustre is a complex technique, this handbook explains and simplifies the process of creating various types of lustre for you to enjoy producing spectacular results. The book offers various recipes for making your own lustres and techniques for applying and firing, and shows you the results of Greg Daly's extensive testing to point you in the right direction. One of the most commonly used lustres today is a resin lustre (known as the 'commercial' lustre) which contains some dangerous carcinogens thinners. There is therefore an advantage to making your own lustre using more natural materials, which will also give you an infinite variety of effects.

Whimsical Victorian novelties in clear and colored glass are displayed in over 590 beautiful color photos and over 80 black and white vintage advertisements and catalog images. Novelty candy containers, decanters, perfume bottles, paperweights, toothpick and match holders, shakers, butter dishes, condiment jars, celeries, and tableware in fanciful forms ranging from animals and humans to fruit, vegetables, personal apparel, furniture, and vehicles all have their place in this fascinating book. The text provides valuable information about the many companies that made these varied and amusing wares, including Fostoria Glass*TM, Hocking Glass*TM, Indiana Tumbler & Goblet*TM, Specialty Glass*TM, United States Glass*TM, and Wheeling Glass Letter & Novelty Company*TM, to name just a few. A bibliography and values in the captions are also provided.

The Imperial Glass Company produced a wide range of beautiful glassware in many patterns and forms from 1901 to 1984. A thorough text and over 540 beautiful photos explore the many patterns, unique items, art glass pieces, private mould objects, wares made for customers to alter or decorate, and the glassware made in non-production colors that were produced by this prolific firm. Among the patterns displayed are Washington, New Rochelle, Pillar Flute, Laced Edge, Empire, Hobnail, Monticello, Cathay, "Molly," and "Zippered Heart." The text provides a brief history of Imperial, discussions of the firm's patterns, wares, the companies that contracted with Imperial for special items, and a detailed bibliography. Prices for the wares displayed are found in the captions. This book will be a treasure for everyone who appreciates beautiful glassware.

The Uncommon Denominatorpresents a spectrum of aesthetic eloquence and technical mastery in the ceramic arts.Hirsch has achieved professional recognition both as a ceramic artist and teacher. The Uncommon Denominator: A Tribute to Richard Hirsch presents a spectrum of aesthetic eloquence and technical mastery in the ceramic arts. Originally published to coincide with a traveling exhibition, this catalog celebrates the career of Hirsch through the work of a selection of his alumni. He has achieved professional recognition both as a ceramic artist and teacher. During his teaching career, which has spanned over thirty years, he has been a faculty member of two prominent craft programs: the Program in Artisanry at Boston University, and currently, the School for American Crafts at Rochester Institute of Technology. Many of Hirsch's former students have established their own outstanding careers in the contemporary ceramics field. Represented in The Uncommon Denominator are notable examples of the renaissance in utilitarian pottery, continued interest in the vessel aesthetic, and the investigation of both figurative and abstract sculpture.

If you enjoy the adventure of alternative firing but have only an electric kiln, this is the guide for you. Learn how to use an electric kiln to attain the natural earthy colors and spontaneous patterns of alternative firing methods. Step-by-step instructions together with nearly 200 photos show how to get good results with saggar firing in an electric kiln, without damaging your kiln. Understand every aspect, from making the saggar and understanding your work's requirements to using terra sigillata, firing the kiln, and more. Along with clearly supplying the exact parameters you need to succeed, the guidance here also allows you the space to experiment and use your own creativity. This resource helps you extend your work with the colors and freedom of alternative firing.

Clay body additions can introduce remarkable new forms and textures in ceramic work. With an emphasis on creativity and experimentation, ceramicist Kathleen Standen reveals a range of possible effects, and profiles the extraordinary work of contemporary makers using additions in their practice. Beginning with an introduction to collecting local clay and making your own clay bodies, the book moves on to cover the array of additions being used by artists today, from hard materials like stones, glass and rust, to combustible matter and fibre, metals including wire and mesh, and colour in various forms. The book is lavishly illustrated throughout with both unique making methods and the beautiful finished works of ceramic artists from around the world. Additions to Clay Bodies is an inspiring introduction to the art of using additions and an essential companion for any artist wishing to expand their practice.

The industrial pottery at Abingdon, Illinois, made artware from 1934 to 1950 before returning to its mainstay, plum-bingware or sanitary-ware, as it was called at "The Pottery." Yankee ingenuity was used to cope with the Great Depression when managers came up with the idea of making artware using their usual "industrial strength" materials and processes. This decision resulted in artware with unusually strong bodies and glazes. For the veteran collector of Abingdon Pottery as well as the novice, this is an Encyclopedia of Shapes, a Dictionary of Colors, a Holy Grail of Collecting, richly illustrated in over 700 photographs and painstakingly researched. It also has a detailed value guide according to mold number and mold type.