The process of creating a celedon piece

Stage 1 A terracotta pot is thrown on a wheel. The pot is allowed to dry somewhat, becoming leather hard. Using either a metal or bamboo stylus, the artist cuts out various designs into the surface of the pot, leaving depressions. Sometimes a hand-carved wooden stamp is used.

Stage 2 Colored clays are inlaid into the depressions. Usually white clay is first inlaid, then green (looks black) and finally red, if these colors are used. Between each inlay, the pot is re-centered on the wheel and smoothed with sand. After the pot hardens again, the next details are cut and filled, until the pot is done. Some pots are done with an overlay instead of inlay

Stage 3 Once all the inlays and or overlays are done, the pot is allowed to dry fully which can takes several months depending on the weather. It is then fired. A large percentage of pots are lost in this initial firing (a tiny air bubble will cause the pot to explode in the kiln).

Finished Vase After the first firing, the glaze is added and the pot is re-fired at a higher temperature. This firing, done in a reduced atmosphere environment is what gives celadon its unique color and crackle glaze. In actuality there are many steps in making a celadon vase. To understand the process better, click here.