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Pottery

Centuries Old Art Form

Pottery has long been a favorite of collectors.

Pottery has existed throughout the cultures of the world since ancient times, and much of it has survived to the present day.

A modern focus on global culture has led to an upswing in the American market for collectible items from around the world, making pottery more popular than ever before.

Here is a brief explanation of the pottery found in three cultures - Egypt, Africa and South America.

Egypt

Egyptian pottery changed throughout the ancient days.

During the Fatimid Dynasty (circa 969-1171), pottery was somewhat coarser than it would be in later years.

Nonetheless, these pieces are highly prized due to the excellent quality of luster painting that was introduced at that time.

Painting on the back of dishes was a common technique that was later replicated in Moorish Spain. It was common for potters to sign their pieces, and those created by Sa'd are considered the finest examples of this type.

Another popular type of ancient Egyptian pottery is highly decorative.

Designs were carved into the pieces, which were then covered in any of a number of transparent glazes.

This type of pottery spread throughout the Islamic world and was popular until at least the 14th century.

Africa

Traditional pottery techniques are still in use throughout Africa, although some city dwellers have begun to embrace machine-made pottery.

The traditional African style involves slowly building up layers of a fairly coarse clay mixture by hand.

Some methods incorporate a ring technique in which the piece is created by adding new rings.

Others use a hammer and anvil to shape the item.

Once the piece is finished, it is slowly dried in an open fire at low heat. There is an almost endless array of designs and styles. In Africa, almost all potters are female.

South America

South American pottery underwent many changes in form and design as various cultures rose and fell in prominence.

However, some similarities can be noted throughout the region. Pottery was primarily centered in the Andes, Bolivia and Peru.

Pieces from other regions were generally considered to be of lesser value and quality. Many potters, particularly in the Andes region, were highly skilled at their craft.

Most South American pottery was created in molds.

Human and animal figures were quite common, particularly those of a particular culture's gods.

Also common were stirrup shaped spouts, although these were by no means universal.

Colors and patterns grew and developed throughout the changing cultural landscape, making it fairly easy for pottery experts to identify specific pieces.

Pottery, in many ways, tells the story of human history.

In use since the ancient world and still created today, pottery is an excellent addition to any collection of historic artifacts.

Prices vary wildly depending on a piece's age, rarity and condition, so it is always a good idea to check with an expert prior to investing a great sum of money.

Nonetheless, the market is variable, so it is always best to choose the pieces that you love rather than trying to determine a potential return on your investment.

Pottery on eBay

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