This Edo Jar with Combed Water Lines in Multi-Layer Glaze beautifully displays Ben III's layering technique. A preparatory set-up of a blend of wood ashes, as well as the cobalt pigment, are sprayed in layers across the top of the vase. During the firing process, the ash melts and creates its own glaze. Along its melting journey, the ash glaze picks up the cobalt pigment and creates a flow of movement for the rich colorant. A perfect example of "letting the kiln be the paintbrush"!
The texture on the surface is created by using a bandsaw blade typically used in woodworking. While the piece is “leather hard”, the saw blade cuts into the clay to reveal the artist's design. Beautiful in a grouping, or, simply striking as a standalone piece. Measuring 7.25”w x 11.75"h.
Please Note: What appear to be white spots on the surface are reflections from photo lighting.
Multi-Layer 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).