The History of Pottery

Pottery is the oldest and most widely used of all human crafts. Its simple clay shapes and surface decoration can reveal the everyday actions and know-how of people in the past. Its durability and resistance to breaking can even help to date archaeological sites.

Pottery can be made by hand or on a potter’s wheel. The wheel-thrown process is known as throwing and requires high levels of skill and experience. It allows the clay to be pressed, squeezed and pulled gently upwards and outwards to create a hollow vessel.

Early pottery was made using whatever clay was available in a locality. This raw material was often tempered with coarse materials such as sand, grit or crushed shell to improve its strength and reduce cracking. These textured surfaces could also act as a barrier to water and volatile elements during drying. Early bonfire-fired pottery was unglazed.

During the industrialization of pottery making in Europe, fine porcelain was imported from China to raise the bar for what a potter should be able to produce. This increased demand prompted the development of new techniques in clay forming and firing. These advances eventually allowed European pottery makers to compete with the Chinese exports.

Today, pottery continues to be a popular hobby and artistic endeavor worldwide. It can provide a sense of creativity, relaxation and accomplishment for its creators. Many pottery pieces can last for centuries when properly cared for. They can be displayed in museums and serve as an excellent reminder of the past.