The yellow and earth-toned colors along the surface of this vase resulted from the application of Ben III’s Yellow Matte glaze along with the natural ash accumulation from the multi-day wood firing.
This form is a distinct design influenced by Ben III’s time studying the ceramic art culture in China. This decorative style is commonly seen in ceramic art from the 9th century Tang Dynasty as well as the 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 combed lines on the outside surface of this bowl were created by using a bandsaw blade usually seen in woodworking. While the piece was “leather hard”, the tool cuts into the clay to reveal the artist’s design. Measuring 6.5"w x 13.25"h.
Please Note: What appear to be white spots on the surface are reflections from photo lighting.
Natural Ash
The Natural Ash Glaze is produced by relying on the wood-firing process as the glazing agent. Most pieces dedicated to this glaze are placed in the kiln with little or no glaze applied to the exterior. During the firing process, the wood is stirred occasionally in the firebox to give flight to the flakes of ash that are produced during the firing. When these small flakes become airborne, they cling to the exposed areas of the pots and accumulate over a period of time. As the kiln reaches about 2300 degrees Fahrenheit, the wood ash will liquefy and begin to run down the side of the pots, as if one had poured honey on the vase.
Yellow Matte
The Yellow Matte Glaze was created with the intent to design 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.
This piece is hand-signed by Ben Owen III with the year made (2022).