Fig. 25. Detail of kylix showing joint
Met. Mus. Acc. No. 06.1021.167
To impart a polish, the blade of a knife is applied to the surface while the vase is revolving; for an inward curve a curved tool must be used. The operation is simple and can be accomplished in a few minutes. It is not often employed, however, by the modern potter, whose object is to keep the pores of his vase open for the better adhesion of the glaze with which he intends to cover the surface of his pot.
The Athenian potter, on the other hand, put great stress on giving the surface of his vase a fine polish; probably using the simple method described above. The difference between a polished and an unpolished surface is clearly seen on some vases on which the potter has omitted to repolish the parts round the handles where the slip used for the attachment had spilled over (fig. [26]).
Attachment of handles.
Fig. 26. Detail of amphora showing difference between polished and unpolished surfaces
Met. Mus. Acc. No. G.R.530