Discover the captivating artistry of Ben Owen III's Combed Han Vase, a handmade treasure that showcases the beauty of traditional pottery elevated through masterful technique. Hand-combed water lines grace the surface, leading the eye across a sophisticated multi-layer glaze that tells a story of intentional craftsmanship and natural transformation. The luminous golden tones emerge from a carefully orchestrated blend of wood ash, cobalt, and iron pigments applied to an iron- and mica-enriched clay foundation. As the kiln reaches temperature, the ash melts into a seemingly "living glaze" that flows organically, gathering pigments and creating rich, unrepeatable surface variations unique to each piece.
A versatile companion for fresh or dried arrangements, this functional sculpture brings warmth, character, and artistic depth to any space. Measuring 5.75"w x 9.5"h.
Please Note: What appear to be white spots on the surface are reflections from photo lighting.
Multi-Layered 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).