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The word Majolica is thought to be a corruption of "Majorca", an important port of trade between Spain and Italy through the 1400's. The Italians's used the word majolica to denote the generic term for tin-glazed earthenware.
The making of majolica is a process demanding considerable time and skill, and some knowledge of the technique is helpful for an understanding of the ware's style. I make earthenware clay pieces on the wheel or slab and form them into shapes on plaster molds. An extruder is used for some cups and vases. After drying, I place these pieces in a kiln at approximately 1900 F which is a fired bisque state. Each piece is then dipped into a liquid glaze, which is free of any lead. Italian majolica of the 14 and 1500's used lead and tin oxide for the white, smooth base glaze. Once the object is dry it is ready to be painted with color.
Metallic oxides and commercial glaze stains are brushed, stamped and /or sprayed on the base glaze coat. Potter must have a sure and steady hand, because the pigments immediately absorb in the surface and are not erasable. The majolica decorator takes advantage of the nature of the medium by working with economy and boldness. |
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