This Mug in Stardust Blue Matte Microcrystalline is a special piece, for sure! Cobalt tints the crystals blue and iron oxide creates the earth-toned background. Measuring 5”l x 3.5”w x 3.75”h.
Please Note: What appear to be white spots on the surface are reflections from photo lighting.
Ben developed this Stardust Blue glaze over a two-year period as he experimented extensively with matte-crystal-growth science. Ben uses his personal air-brush technique to apply up to 6 layers of specifically formulated glazes to achieve this finish. The firing phase of glaze development takes place in a carefully planned and meticulously monitored process. Ben fires the kiln up, holding specific temperatures as the kiln climbs to the goal of 2300 degrees F. He fires the kiln down with equal attention as he stalls temperatures at specific levels to enhance cobalt crystal growth. Ben's Stardust glaze displays an understated matte crystal finish, unlike the shiny crystalline pottery that several NC potters offer. Finally pleased with the outcome of his glaze development in 2012, Ben began selling matte crystalline glazed work to customers in his Seagrove area pottery shop. Stardust Blue glaze was named when a client who worked as a scientist with the Hubble Space Telescope mentioned that the glaze reminded her of actual stardust.
This piece is hand-signed by Ben Owen III with the year made (2024).