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Earthenware

Kasey Denis

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General Information

Earthenware is a type of pottery that is fired at low temperatures. This results in a material that is porous and opaque and retains a rich clay color. Plain earthenware is not watertight because it is so porous; therefore, glazes are applied to increase their usefulness. Earthenware often has a radiant base color consisting of red, beige to cream, dark brown, or even almost black in some cases. This base color is determined by the clay which is used in the mixture. Earthenware is often partially glazed to allow the natural color of the clay to show through. After it is fired, earthenware is opaque, soft, and capable of being scratched with a knife.

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For the maintenance of earthenware, water, and a cloth is all that is necessary. Ceramics should avoid being put in a dishwasher as the temperature and pressure of the water can permanently damage enamel and glazes. Household bleaches and proprietary cleaning products should also be avoided as they can cause irreversible damage.

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Use in Interior Setting

1.  This Grapes Multilight pendant made from a combination of porcelain and earthenware looks more like a sculpture than a fixture. The Dwell 24: The Up-and-Coming Designers Who Need to Be on Your Radar Right Now - Dwell

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2. These beautiful turquoise earthenware vases are a great splash of color that would warm up any interior living space they are in.  Teardrop Pottery Vases - Lonestar Western Decor

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3. These sleek pieces of slip-cast earthenware would add visual interest to any residence.  A Marriage of Craft and Design - Dwell

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4. The earthy color of the earthenware planter makes it a neutral accent that will complement a dining room table, side table, or even the corner of a room. Create an Indoor Garden with Elegant Planters - Dwell

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5. This guest bathroom is floored with Ironworks handmade earthenware tile that is complemented by the large windows filling the room with natural light. The Forbes-Mack Residence | Architect: John F. Jensen | $1,350,000 - Dwell

Environmental Impact

Some aspects of earthenware production are not eco-friendly.  This includes the use of natural resources and the high fuel consumption needed for firing pottery. A lot of energy is required to fire pottery in a kiln. Additionally, harmful chemicals are sometimes used in glazes and glazed pottery generally needs to be fired twice. However, earthenware does reduce the need for disposable plastic. And compared to other substances, pottery production is less harmful to the environment.

 

Earthenware has low life cycle costs due to its durability and longevity. The care and keeping of an earthenware piece will go a long way in providing extra longevity.

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Earthenware has no impact on indoor air quality. 

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Fireplace

An earthenware fireplace aesthetically enriches the style of a space and is a beautiful alternative to the more common metal fireplaces. The main advantage over metal fireplaces, however, is their phenomenal ability to heat and radiate into the room long after a fire has burned low. For a fireplace made of earthenware, there are a variety of options that can be used depending on personal preference and the style of a room.  The body can be covered completely or decorated with slip, or it can be glazed. For both practical and decorative reasons, earthenware is usually glazed.

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Organizations

  • The American Ceramic Society

  • Wisconsin Pottery Association

  • National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts

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Relevant standards through ASTM​

  • C1624 - 05: Standard Test Method for Adhesion Strength and Mechanical Failure Modes of Ceramic Coatings

  • C1323 - 16:  Standard Test Method for Ultimate Strength of Advanced Ceramics at Ambient Temperature

  • C1027-99 - Standard Test Method for Determining Visible Abrasion Resistance of Glazed Ceramic Tile

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© 2021 by Jenny Lee, Grace McDonald, Kasey Denis, & Tess Parisi

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