This beautiful Han Vase with Combed Water Lines is covered in a layered ash-blend glaze. The rich, golden tones are a result of the glaze chemicals interacting with the iron- and mica-enriched wild clay body.
Ben III's layering technique allows a preparatory set-up of a blend of wood ashes, as well as the cobalt and iron pigments, to the top of the vase. During the firing process, the ash melts and creates its own glaze that readily drips. Along its flowing journey, the ash glaze picked up the cobalt and iron pigments and encouraged a flow of movement for the rich colorant. A glorious example of "letting the kiln be the paintbrush"! A perfect vase for fresh or dried flowers. Measuring 7.25"w x 12"h.
Please Note: What appear to be white spots on the surface are reflections from photo lighting.
Multi-Layer Glaze
When Ben was in college, he was introduced to a spraying technique using an air-driven spray gun that some potters use to build up layers of glazes on the clay surface. With some experimenting, he was able to create a variety of finishes using accents of 3 to 4 different colors. A glaze made from ash can be used as a top coat to blend or bleach the underlying colors. Some finishes are a base of an iron yellow with cobalt blue or copper green covering. Other colors of orange to silver can develop from the colors overlapping. No two pieces are exactly alike.
This piece is hand-signed by Ben Owen III with the year made (2025).