The ceramic production cycles: Second Cycle

“… The painting of vases is different from the painting on the wall because, while the wall painting is done for most of the time standing, the decoration of vases must be made to sit. For certain works, the object is placed on the knees, with one hand underneath to keep it.”

Glazing

The "bisquit" item is then dipped in a glaze that may be one of several colours (usually it is white, cream or slightly ivory). Apparatus used: Bowls, pliers, strainers, ladles.

Painting / Decoration

Usually the paint is applied over the glaze since it is only performed by hand over the base colour (glaze) applied in the previous stage. The colours used for decorating are produced with ground minerals, which are then diluted with water and applied to the object by hand using various types of paint brush, depending on the type of painting or detail required on the surface. One of the problems encountered when painting pottery is that the colours used for the decoration will change hue after the second firing, so the artist will need to foresee the end effect of the applications. Our company currently produces more than 130 lines of decorations; all manufacturing processes are performed only by hand and there is ample capability for creating new decorations, even personalised to customer request. Apparatus used: Paint brushes, pounce-bags, lathes.

Vitrification

This process is performed after the object has been decorated and consists of its being sprayed with a glass paste called "crystalline glaze". Apparatus used: Spray gun, powder filter booth, lathes, tables.

Second firing "… for beauty"

Second firing is at about 920°/950° C and is needed to bond the decoration to the object. During this firing the previously applied crystalline glaze will melt and become transparent. After this phase the item will acquire brilliance, impermeability and the colours will change their initial appearance, with their real beauty coming to the surface. A day must pass before the firing chamber can be opened to admire the craft object that has been produced. Apparatus used: Flame and electric kilns.