The Copper Red Glaze is considered to be one of the most difficult glazes to master and John has been working almost entirely in this area of glaze work for the past twelve years. The variations resulting from experimenting with glaze recipes and firings are infinite.
The rich deep red colours are achieved by starving the kiln of oxygen during quite a significant part of the glaze firing and this results in flames being emitted from the flue and spy holes of the kiln .The length and colour of these flames will determine the finished colour of the pots.
History And Influences: China
The SUNG DYNASTY [960-1279] glazes of China are recognised as the first high fire copper reds. Using a chun glaze the Chinese experimented with small additions of copper under the glaze leading to a gradual understanding of the potential palette which would blend the colours of reduced copper in a vibrant spectrum of rich crimson and red, purple, violet and the palest blue. Together with this use of copper in a reduction fire the potters experimented with monochromatic copper glazes, the red glazes being called sang-de boeuf '.
The CH’ING DYNASTY [1644-1912]. This was known as the golden age of ceramics in China with colours emerging known as ‘Peach Bloom’ and ‘Flambe’.
The glazes from this period are the real inspiration for John’s work.
John's Standard Brush Decorated, Copper Red Range Of Fine Stoneware Pottery
John has been producing a selection of related works for several years .The same brush work and glaze is used on each pot. This allows people to purchase a collection of closely related pieces.
