What Is an Earthenware Pot?

Earthenware pots have many uses.

Earthenware pots come from clay that has gone through a unique process that involves molding and heating. Precision, skills and knowledge of the medium of clay to create are required to create these specific pots.

History

Humans have mastered the technology for creating earthenware pottery since prehistoric times. According to Minnesota State University, the oldest earthenware pot ever found came from Catalhoyuk, which is an ancient site in the Mediterranean.

Technique

An earthenware pot begins as a piece of molded clay that has a slightly gritty texture at first, then changes into a semi-porous texture after being heated in a furnace. People then use a glaze to paint the pottery as decoration before heating it for the second time to melt the paint into a glassy layer. Instead of firing, earthenware can also dry in the sun.

Uses

Compared to other pottery forms such as stoneware and porcelain, earthenware is more prevalent. People use earthenware pots as decorative pieces, cooking vessels and storage containers.

References

• Minnesota State University: Pottery