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."

Only recently recognized for its many contributions to ceramics found throughout the world, the Scottish pottery industry has existed for more than two hundred years. Rather than compete with England's famed potteries to the south, Scotland focused on the export market, sending its colorful and decorative wares to America, Canada, and many parts of Southeast Asia. Widely enjoyed, these popular and affordable wares were usually not marked. Their Scottish origin, therefore, remained largely unknown and--until now--unappreciated. This book sets the record straight. Over 630 striking color photographs showcase the multi-hued dinnerware, vases, plaques, figurines, and other ceramic items that can now be rightfully attributed to the prolific Scottish potteries. Separate, descriptive chapters feature brief histories of the most important potteries, a discussion of the wares produced, listings of the pottery descriptions and patterns, plus relevant readings. Additional chapters highlight spongeware techniques, Scottish jugs, and the "Glasgow Girls"--talented pottery painters from the late nineteenth century. This invaluable resource also includes values for all items, a helpful glossary, and a detailed index.

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.

This book beautifully illustrates the wide range of artistic innovation and techniques expressed in vitreous, or "hard," enamels on metal. More than 30 experienced enamelists share their specialized knowledge for using cloisonne, plique-A-jour, champleve, and basse-taille techniques on silver, gold, foils, and metal clay to make jewelry, vessels, portraits, and more. Works from an additional 55 artists are also displayed in over 350 color photographs. Their words and work will instruct and inspire beginners and encourage the next generation of metal workers to carry enameling to new heights.

This is the first book exclusively about L. C. Tiffany's glass mosaic masterpieces, created from 1880 to 1931 at the Tiffany Studios in New York City for clients across the continent. Fascinating and well-researched text combines with over 700 color photographs to showcase Tiffany's magnificent art. Many of the images are published here for the first time, highlighting over 70 luminous installations in private mansions, public buildings, and churches. Beautifully decorated interiors, mausoleums, and domestic rooms are shown along with an explanation of Tiffany's technique of mosaic making and the unique glass he created and used in them. New information identifies the mosaic artists who worked with him. A useful glossary of mosaic and glass terms, chronology of events in L. C. Tiffany's life relating to his mosaic work, and complete listing of the locations of his mosaic masterpieces are provided. This book will enthrall lovers of mosaics, students, and scholars with an interest in Tiffany as well as decorative arts and design.

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 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.

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 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.

A highly illustrated step-by-step guide to designing and making contemporary tableware in clay, featuring inspirational pieces by leading designers. The tableware we use is very important in our everyday lives, whether plates, bowls, mugs, cups or teapots. This stylishly illustrated guide helps budding and established ceramicists alike to create practical and attractive ranges, starting with design principles, working through appropriate construction techniques, and leading on to decoration and finishes. Leading designers Sue Pryke and Linda Bloomfield explain the importance of inspiration and consistency in design, providing step-by-step guides to the main making methods, which include hand building, pinching, coiling, throwing and slipcasting. They also offer advice on using various clay materials - such as recycled and reused clay bodies - and the combination of clay with other materials including wood, metal, textiles and synthetics. Tips are provided on glaze fit, dishwasher- and microwave-safe glazes, firing and finishing. Featuring beautiful photographs of the work of such prominent tableware makers as Sasha Wardell, James and Tilla Waters, Reiko Kaneko and Nico Conti, there are many sources of inspiration for those wishing to further their tableware ambitions.

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.

Lively, informative and full of original tips and techniques Simon's YouTube videos have lit the ceramics world on fire, becoming a must-see supplement to most potters' educations. But therein lies the hitch; most potters don't want to take a laptop into a ceramics studio. This is where Simon Leach's Pottery Handbook comes in, encapsulating all of Simon's basic techniques in one easy to carry book, from studio design and set up, to basic throwing techniques, adding appendages, trimming, glazing and firing. Simon Leach's Pottery Handbook is perfectly suited for the studio, as it is portable and the concealed wire-o binding will help the book lay flat and stand up. For each technique, detailed step by step photography captures the subtle, intricate movements that typically fly by too fast to be noticed in a video. Plus the book includes a DVD with many of Simon's YouTube videos; callouts throughout the book tell readers which video goes with each section. Gorgeous photos throughout the book show pots in various stages of production and finished results; something that is currently missing from the YouTube videos, so that an aspiring potter can see how the work will look once it has been fired.

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.

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.

Developing your own glazes can be tricky and success is dependent on many factors. In this book, ceramicist Greg Daly aims to demystify the process with practical advice and complete, step-by-step instructions. He covers all the essentials, from planning your recipes and recording results to mixing glazes and finding the correct firing temperature. This hands-on technical guidance is supported with helpful how-to images and example tests and recipes.

For any potter beginning to experiment with fired colour, texture and decoration in their work, Developing Glazes is an essential reference, revealing workable, exciting methods for achieving the glaze results you want.

Techniques Using Slips examines the many techniques of using slips - liquid clay which can be used for decoration on its own or covered with glaze - such as brushing, dipping, trailing and sgraffito amongst others, and uses contemporary potters' works as illustrations. It explains how to make up slips and englobes, as well as ways of using them at higher temperatures, both with and without glazes. The book is illustrated with working potters in action, showing their own personal styles and how they have adapted traditional methods to suit their work today in a modern context. As well as examples of techniques, there are many images of beautiful finished pieces to show what can be achieved.

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.

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.

This is a comprehensive guide to the basic techniques and equipment: all you need to know, from tinning an edge, painting and etching to simple home cutting, delicate folk painting and frosted patterning. The beauty of decorative glass is celebrated in practical, inspirational designs such as herb jars, nightlights, poem vase, copper foil mirror and a stylish Alhambra picture frame. It features examples of the finest glasswork from contemporary craft artists and designers. It presents the definitive modern approach to a traditional craft, with every stage clearly illustrated with photographs in step-by-step instructions for 25 superb projects. It features over 300 photographs of the finished projects so you can what you are aiming at. The availability of easy-to-apply paints in an exciting range of colours means that glass decoration is within the reach of everyone, without the need for specialist equipment. By mastering a few simple skills, you can turn everyday objects into attractive pieces. Here you will find 25 practical projects to inspire you, presented in an easy-to-follow step-by-step format. A variety of basic techniques includes etching, painting, stained-glass construction, wirework and glass-cutting, which are then applied to decorate functional objects such as decorated herb jars and nightlights, and ornamental pieces such as a heraldic bottle and a candle bowl. Further inspiration is provided by the gallery section, in which leading craftspeople display their work, from stained-glass effect mirrors to gilded bowls. This comprehensive guide shows you how to create beautiful objects in a classic medium.

This beautifully illustrated book will attract both beginners and advanced painters, and is written from the heart with unabashed enthusiasm. It shows step-by-step that anyone can paint if they really want to, and provides guidance every step of the way.The author covers all spheres of porcelain decoration, whether it's flowers or fruit, cats or landscapes, portraits or designs. She shows clearly how to work with many materials and techniques, including mineral oxides, gold and silver, raised paste, lustres, grounding and the kiln.Porcelain painting since 1970, her vast knowledge and practical experience is packed within the pages, with a subject for everyone to enjoy.