Ben’s Patina Green glaze is a blend of a copper glaze and the natural ash accumulation from the wood firing process. Micro-crystals have formed on the surface of the piece during the slow cooling of the kiln. The ribbed design is created by altering the clay with a wooden throwing stick while the clay is still wet on the wheel.
This two-handled form is a distinct design influenced by Ben III’s time spent studying traditional Chinese ceramic art in China. This decorative style is commonly seen in the pottery styles created during the 9th century, under the Tang Dynasty rule, as well as in the Yue wares. The small handles on the shoulder of this Two-Handled Vase embellish the form in a similar approach to the ancient Chinese design work. Measuring 6”w x 12”h.
Please Note: What appear to be white spots on the surface are reflections from photo lighting.
The Patina Green Glaze was first developed by Ben III, in the early 1990’s while in college at East Carolina, as a glossy forest green made from a copper pigment. When testing the glaze in the wood kilns back home at the family pottery, the results were strikingly different with many variations of color and surface. If fired in the wood kiln with no salt added to the firing, the color will be a darker green with small crystals on the surface. If finished in a wood and salt firing, the salt will brighten the color and create more blue-green hues with random small crystals on the surface.
This piece is hand-signed by Ben Owen III with the year made (2024).