A distinct design influenced by Ben III’s time in China. This decorative style is commonly seen in ceramic art from the 9th century Tang Dynasty and also Yue wares. The small handles on the shoulder of this Two-Handled Vase embellish the form in a similar approach to the ancient design work.
The Cobalt Crystalline glaze is one of Ben’s newest developments. The crystals are formed inside the kiln during the cooling process and are tinted with cobalt and iron pigments. Due to the unique chemical properties during crystal formation, no two crystals are alike. This glaze lends itself to creating completely individualized pieces. Measuring 6.5”w x 13.5"h.
Please Note: What appear to be white spots on the surface are reflections from photo lighting.
The Cobalt Crystalline Glaze series was carefully developed by Ben Owen III over several years. Various glaze materials with the potential to create unique surfaces and patterns were methodically manipulated during test series after test series until crystal formation became somewhat replicable. Many of these crystal formations have been viewed as a comparison of various natural occurrences in the Earth’s environment. Some resemble lichen on stone, lily pads floating along a lake or pond, moss on a tree trunk, and even blue jellyfish floating in deep ocean waters.
To achieve this rare find, the kiln temperature is meticulously controlled as it rises AND as it falls, to encourage crystalline growth at specific temperatures. The glaze is applied by carefully airbrushing multiple layers of complementary glazes. The presence of titanium- and zinc-rich ingredients promotes crystal development, while the pigment cobalt tints the crystals blue and the pigment iron tints the background. We hope you enjoy this one-of-a-kind glaze!
This piece is hand-signed by Ben Owen III with the year made (2023).