Ceramic Books

Looking at how artists from all over the world have modeled the human form in ceramics, The Figure in Fired Clay provides lavish full-color illustrations and examples from prehistoric times to the present, along with the historical, mythological, and methodological background to this fascinating subject. Stunningly beautiful drinking vessels and pottery, some fashioned in the shape of people or animals, some with these figures painted on their exterior, have enhanced the domestic rituals of all cultures, and are brilliantly depicted and examined alongside the experiments of the modern masters-Picasso, Mo Jupp, Eric Mellon, and others.

Going beyond theory straight to hands-on practice, this studio workbook is devoted to the creation of a large, realistic bronze figure, from initial studies through the complex processes of enlarging, modeling, molding, casting, and finishing. First the book deals with preparing the clay, building the armature, developing the figure study, and enlarging it. Then casting is explored, plaster waste, flexible molds, systems of lost-wax casting, metal chasing, welding, mounting, and patinas. Tips on the maintenance and restoration of bronze sculpture are included. Net Wt. is 1.74 lbs.

From Mud to Music explores the vast array of ceramic musical instruments, from their historical traditions in world cultures to modern variations and innovations. All instrument families are represented: percussion, winds, strings, and even unique hybrids. For each type of instrument, special construction techniques specific to clay are explained. In addition, there's a chapter providing detailed, step-by-step instructions showing how to build several ceramic instruments. A companion audio CD contains 43 diverse tracks of ceramic instrumental music. Hundreds of color photos present the work of artists from around the world spanning the last 3000 years. Net Wt. is 3.08 lbs.

Functional Pottery, the best-selling pottery reference first published in 1986, has been extensively revised and updated to include more than 250 color photos as well as hundreds of black and white photos and illustrations. Covering historical as well as contemporary pottery, this acclaimed and inspirational book presents both philosophical and practical experiences from the 43-year pottery-making career of Robin Hopper, one of North America's most recognized ceramic artists.

Traditionally, potters fired their work either at low temperatures, as in earthenware, or at the high temperature that stoneware requires. However, a growing number of potters, particularly those who use electric kilns, are firing to a middle-range temperature, of which cone 6 is typical. Using mid-range temperatures saves fuel and expense, reduces wear on electric elements, yet allows the potter to achieve features shared by earthenware and stoneware. Because of the popularity of this technique, pottery suppliers have recently begun developing clay bodies and glazes suitable for the temperature range. In Glazes Cone 6, Mike Bailey surveys the growing trend in mid-temperature firing and guides the reader by practical knowledge. He discusses a range of different glazes, including special effects, glaze stains, and underglaze colors, giving both recipes and tips for ensuring success.

A reference book on glaze technology and practice. It discusses not only the calculation of glaze composition and formulae, but also glaze preparation from the initial crushing and grinding of raw materials through the actual making of the glaze. It also includes information on the use of gums and binders, flocculation and the use of suspending agents. The author also talks about application methods as well as how to remedy faults that may occur. A new chapter on health and safety has also been added. Net Wt. is 1.09 lbs.

Glazes from Natural Sources discusses rock types and other likely sources of supply, the making of test pieces, and the use of blend systems and constructions. The author also clarifies the Seger system of glaze presentation for those who, like himself, have found it difficult to grasp and apply. He covers, and supplies, formulae for glazes for all temperatures--from raku to stoneware and porcelain--and includes sample recipes. The book emphasizes careful planning and control to ensure results that are repeatable. This makes the science behind making glazes from natural sources both understandable and feasible.

By Tom Coleman.

This Ceramics Monthly handbook is written by and about artists and experts. These articles cover a wide range of materials, recipes, and techniques used in the glazing of work by both studio potters and ceramic artists. This book is a great example of how the modern potter uses a combination of trial-and-error discoveries along with information from scientists and engineers in the field to achieve unique effects that are the signature of the current ceramic art movement. Net Wt. is 1.11 lbs.

This book gives both a broad overview of glazes and details specifics about them. It discusses preparation, adapting glazes to ceramic mixtures, firing, cooling, glazing with a brush, with a spraygun, handling defects and corrections, finishing processes, and using a crucible and kiln. The glazes reviewed included crystalline, raku, salt, and crackle. Net Wt. is 1.16 lbs.