PLATE XXIII. Making Large Pieces. Setting the Third Section in Place.
PLATE XXIV. Making Large Pieces. The Three Sections Set Together in the Rough.
PLATE XXV. Making Large Pieces. The Finished Vase.
CHAPTER XII
Cups and Saucers and Plates
It is not likely that many craftsmen will care to produce table wares or even that they will be able to acquire the necessary skill. Simple as these wares seem, they are, in fact, the most difficult of all to make well. In factory working, one man makes nothing but cups, another saucers and another plates, so that each attains the skill of constant practice, but this is out of the question for the studio worker. At the same time it is well to know how it is done and it may be that some one will undertake to produce a few pieces for the sake of the enjoyment arising therefrom.
It is possible to finish a cup upon the wheel just as a vase is made. The handle is modeled in clay and fastened in place with slip when in the leather hard condition. Saucers and plates cannot be made in this manner; first, because the broad thin bottom will surely crack and, second, because it is impracticable to turn a plate or saucer over in order to finish the bottom. The risk of breakage is so great that there is nothing to be gained.