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Ancient peoples used clay to form cooking pots for their
use. Over time they discovered that the fire hardened the
clay.
From that beginning, many forms of creating a fire to alter
the clay were used, with the bonfire
being almost universally used by first peoples. Improving
on their technique, they learned that a container for the
fire was helpful. They began to use pits
dug into or under the ground. Sometimes they even built
pits constructed with clay walls.
Many contemporary potters are returning to these ancient
methods for the unusual effects
created from the fire and smoke. The finished pot is always
a surprise and cannot
be duplicated.
Fire is affected by atmospheric
pressure, humidity
and wind. Knowledge
of how fire reacts to these factors in a pit or kiln can
allow the potter to manipulate and influence the general
appearance of the art.
A variety of colors can be achieved from using minerals
on the pot or in the fire.
The polished pot was
also developed as it compressed the surface of the pot for
further usefulness in daily life. In the present day, these
pots are normally only decorative.
We are amazed by the artistry and skill of the ancient
potters to make a unique
work of art, beautiful
to the touch, with the mark of the hand. The contemporary
potter follows their path.
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