Guide to Understanding Handmade Pottery & Appreciating Artisan Imperfection

Handcrafted pottery embraces the beauty of imperfection, with glaze variations adding unique character to every piece. These features reflect skilled craftsmanship and enhance the design's depth. Here’s how to appreciate and care for these distinctive details.

Textured Surfaces (Coral & Aegean)

• You may see uneven glazing and texture near mini craters, pits, and uneven bubbles that create a tactile texture.
• Why It Happens:
  • Occurs when air or moisture in the clay or glaze escapes during firing.
  • Some glazing techniques intentionally encourage these textures and uneveness to mimic natural stone or organic surfaces.
• How to Appreciate:
  • Think of these textures as a way to add visual intrigue and uniqueness. Each tiny pit or bubble reflects the dynamic interaction of clay and glaze in the kiln.
  • Perfect for rustic or earthy-themed spaces, these textures make the pottery appear as though it came straight from nature.

High Gloss Crazing (Le Beau)

• You may see crazing and fine surface cracks on the glaze surfaces.
• Why It Happens:
  • Caused by differences in contraction between the glaze and the clay as the piece cools.
  • Typically found in high-gloss or shiny glazes.
  • How to Appreciate:
    • Crazing adds character and a sense of timelessness to the piece, making it resemble a cherished antique.
    • It doesn’t affect the strength of the pottery and is a desirable feature in vintage-inspired designs.
  • Care:
    • Avoid extreme temperature changes, as crazing may deepen if subjected to thermal shock.
    • For functional items (like planters), use a sealant if exposure to water is constant.

Pinholes and Dimples

• You may see small pinholes, dimples, and uneven patches in glazing.
• Why It Happens:
  • Trapped gases or impurities in the glaze bubble to the surface and pop during firing.
• How to Appreciate:
  • These details are a natural part of the glazing process, demonstrating the unpredictable and hands-on nature of pottery creation.
  • They create a unique interplay between matte and glossy areas, highlighting the pot’s hand-finished look.
• Care:
  • Handle with care, as these subtle imperfections may be more prone to collecting dirt or residue. Use a soft cloth for cleaning.

Drips, Runs, and Uneven Coloration

• You may see glaze drips, pooling, and subtle color variations.
• Why It Happens:
  • Glaze naturally flows during firing, creating overlaps and depth.
  • Uneven application by hand adds layers of variation.
• How to Appreciate:
  • These drips and uneven glazing tell the story of the glaze’s journey during firing, showcasing the maker’s touch and the unpredictability of the process.
  • Use lighting to highlight these dimensional features in your display.
• Care:
  • Avoid scrubbing the surface too vigorously, as these layers may wear down over time with excessive cleaning.

Raw Edges and Bare Spots (Tuscan & Chateau)

• You may see minimal clay rims or bases.
• Why It Happens:
  • The glaze may naturally pull back during firing, or the artisan may intentionally leave areas unglazed for contrast.
• How to Appreciate:
  • These raw edges create a harmonious balance between the natural clay body and the pottery design.
• They ground the piece, emphasizing its handcrafted origins.

Patina & Weathered Appearance

• You may see fading, or areas with a slightly aged look or small distressed cracks.
• Why It Happens:
  • Natural kiln variations or exposure to the elements during use.
  • Intentional distressing to achieve a vintage, well-loved appearance.
• How to Appreciate:
  • These imperfections create a sense of history and connection to traditional pottery-making techniques.
• They’re ideal for outdoor use or as statement pieces in a shabby-chic or rustic setting.

Tips for Understanding & Caring for Handcrafted Pottery

• Celebrate the Craftsmanship: No two pieces are the same, and every imperfection reflects the skill and artistry of the potter.
• Highlight the Uniqueness: Use these imperfections as a focal point in your décor to tell a story about the handmade process.
• Know the Value: Many imperfections are highly sought after, as they add charm and uniqueness to the piece.
• Gentle Cleaning: Use a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge to wipe off debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can erode the glaze.
• Avoid Thermal Shock: Do not expose pottery to rapid temperature changes, which can deepen crazing or cause cracks.
• Display Thoughtfully: Keep pieces in environments that enhance their features, such as under natural lighting or among natural textures.