This distinguished barrel mug represents a remarkable artifact from Ben Owen Sr.'s prolific career, meticulously handcrafted during the 1960s. The refined Frogskin glaze—a hallmark of his celebrated body of work—demonstrates the technical mastery and aesthetic sensibility that defined his legacy in American pottery. Remarkably preserved and entirely serviceable, this piece offers both historical significance and practical elegance for the discerning collector. Dishwasher- and microwave-safe. Measuring 5"l x 3.75"w x 4"h.
Please Note: What appear to be white spots on the surface are reflections from photo lighting.
Frogskin Glaze
Frogskin is the same glaze as a Teadust glaze but fired in the back of a salt glaze groundhog kiln where salt is added to the firing at the very end. The sodium in the salt reacts similarly to the way bleach works on clothing by bleaching the iron-rich glaze creating an olive green to mustard-colored finish with a glossy surface.
Historically, Ben III’s family and many other potters in the Seagrove area became aware of natural clay from Albany, NY (known as Albany Slip) that could be used as a glaze by itself to produce this type of finish with the addition of salt thrown in the kiln at the end of the firing.
Made by Ben Owen Sr. circa the 1960s. Stamped "Master Potter Ben Owen".