This Mug in Cobalt, Yellow Matte and Ash Glazes marks a beautiful intersection in glazing and natural woodfiring techniques. Ash accumulation throughout the firing process produces a runny, yellow-to-brown natural glaze that catches the Cobalt and Yellow Matte glazes that were pre-set along the rim of the mug. A lovely combination that presents as lovely earth tones. Ben Owen III often looks to the natural environment around him for inspiration. This beautiful, unique mug will delight its recipient and become favored in a daily routine, for sure! Microwave- and dishwasher-safe. Measuring 5.5”l x 4”w x 4.5"h.
Please Note: What appear to be white spots on the surface are reflections from photo lighting.
Yellow Matte
The inspiration behind the Yellow Matte Glaze was to create a smooth, “soft” surface on the pots that would be a change from the glossy finishes typical in the Owen family of glazes. From looking at surfaces created during the wood firing process, Ben wanted to recreate a similar surface but with the option to make it uniform or add an accent by spraying on the clay surface. The yellow pigment is made from iron oxide and the matte finish is created from the use of magnesium and strontium in the glaze.
Cobalt Blue
The Cobalt Blue glaze has been used by the Owen family for over four generations. Early salt glaze wares made in the late 1800s were decorated with a cobalt blue glaze over the grey salt finish. Over the past 50 years, Ben Owen Pottery has made some cobalt-glazed pieces using a uniform coating of the glaze on the surface of the pots. Today, Ben uses a glaze similar to the older, original glaze. This newer Cobalt Blue is glossy and reveals a depth to the finish. Sometimes, the Cobalt Blue is used to accentuate pieces that are fired in the wood kiln. These are called multi-layered glazes.
This piece is hand-signed by Ben Owen III with the year made (2026).