Ben III’s Patina Green glaze produces a variety of results. A blend of copper glazes, Ben achieves a wide range of green color and physical textures through skillful glaze application techniques and different firing processes. All include carefully controlling the kiln to prevent carbon build-up, which would convert the copper color from green to red. For this newer version of Patina Green, blushes of pink are created with a carefully controlled introduction of smoke into the kiln chamber.
The combed texture along the surface of this vase is created by using a band saw blade to cut into the clay while the clay is in a semi-dry stage.
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 6.5”w x 12.75”h.
Please Note: What appear to be white spots on the surface are reflections from photo lighting.
Patina Green (New Variation)
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. Today, Ben continues exploring with application techniques and has developed a newer variation of the traditional Patina Green. Blushes of copper pink are visible with this newer exploration of glaze application. Ben III's expertise is showcased beautifully with his Patina Green glaze!
This piece is hand-signed by Ben Owen III with the year made (2025).