Teachers' Information

The Staffordshire potters were constantly experimenting with new techniques but this piece was probably created using a slipcast method. A plaster model and mould is made into which liquid clay or slip clay is poured. When hard the platter is removed and fettled, the method by which rough edges are sponged or cut away. It is now ready for firing in a kiln.

The unglazed platter is fired to produce biscuit ware which is then dipped in a lead glaze and fired a second time at a lower temperature. Shiny paper transfers depicting the hunting and fishing design and flower and fruit border are then cut and put in place. The whole thing is fired for a third time to complete the process.

Some clays and glazes are oxygen sensitive, most notably those containing iron and copper. These will change colour depending on the presence of oxygen during the firing. Kilns can either be oxidised by opening a port to allow oxygen into the interior or reduced by closing off the kiln from outside air to attain colours as desired.

Objects such as this platter were probably produced in small numbers for the household themselves or as gifts.

Activities

1. Organise a trip to a pottery museum and research the process of production.

2. Your pupils could design a platter based on their home or school. Encourage pupils to think about the pastimes that should be included to reflect 21st century living. The class could produce a series of scenes showing different times in history.

3. Research Staffordshire pottery and the ’five towns’. How did the pottery industry affect the local community? What is it like now?