A concise handbook describing current practice and supporting theory of ceramics glazing. Starting with fundamental definitions and theoretical considerations, the work discusses glaze raw materials, their pretreatment, application, firing and the avoidance of defects in finished products. Emphasis is placed on the wide variety of materials and processes used in modern glazing practice, and the volume provides helpful guidelines to the correct selection of a material or process for a given application. Published under the aegis of the Institute of Ceramics.

Demonstrates the technology involved in making and firing ceramics.

Worldwide research on ancient glass began in the early 20th century. A consensus has been reached in the community of Archaeology that the first manmade or synthetic glasses, based on archaeological findings, originated in the Middle East during the 5000-3000's BC. By contrast, the manufacturing technology of pottery and ceramics were well developed in ancient China. The earliest pottery and ceramics dates back to the Shang Dynasty - the Zhou Dynasty (1700 BC-770 BC), while the earliest ancient glass artifacts unearthed in China dates back to the Western Han Dynasty. Utilizing the state-of-the art analytical and spectroscopic methods, the recent findings demonstrate that China had already developed its own glassmaking technology at latest since 200 BC. There are two schools of viewpoint on the origin of ancient Chinese glass. The more common one believes that ancient Chinese glass originated from the import of glassmaking technology from the West as a result of Sino-West trade exchanges in the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC-25 AD). The other scientifically demonstrates that homemade ancient Chinese glass with unique domestic formula containing both PbO and BaO were made as early as in the Pre-Qin Period or even the Warring States Period (770 BC-221 BC), known as Yousha or Faience.This English version of the previously published Chinese book entitled Development History of Ancient Chinese Glass Technology is for universities and research institutes where various research and educational activities of ancient glass and history are conducted. With 18 chapters, the scope of this book covers very detailed information on scientifically based findings of ancient Chinese glass development and imports and influence of foreign glass products as well as influence of the foreign glass manufacturing processes through the trade exchanges along the Silk Road(s).

Packed with information and glaze recipes, this book will enable you to reference hundreds of ceramic surfaces. Each glaze recipe is reproduced pictorially so you can see the colour and surface responses it has to offer, and features a brief description, its firing range, and the uses to which it can be put.

“No pot is left unturned, as the author features elegant examples of major glaze techniques.” —Booklist. “This well-illustrated handbook...covers glaze chemistry, application techniques, firing, and problem solving. Color photographs comparing fired samples are particularly good. Useful for studio potters and hobbyists.”—Library Journal.

Ash Glazes has been designed as an introduction and practical handbook to this glazing technique, covering the history of ash glazes and the practicalities of collecting and testing wood ashes and transforming them into glazes. It will provide inspiration for working potters and delight all those interested in contemporary ceramics.

These twenty papers dedicated to Mike Tite focus upon the interpretation of ancient artefacts and technologies, particularly through the application of materials analysis. Instruments from the human eye to mass spectrometry provide insights into a range of technologies ranging from classical alum extraction to Bronze Age wall painting, and cover materials as diverse as niello, flint, bronze, glass and ceramic. Ranging chronologically from the Neolithic through to the medieval period, and geographically from Britain to China, these case studies provide a rare overview which will be of value to students, teachers and researchers with an interest in early material culture.