Are Fused Glass Vessels Better than Pottery ones?

picture: jgglassart.com

Fused Glass Vessels:

1. Process:

• Fused glass (glass melting): In this process, glass is heated to its melting point and cast or molded into the desired shape.
• Fusing: Fusing involves joining two or more pieces of glass by heating them to a high enough temperature to fuse together, but not so much that they completely melt and lose their shape. This process is usually done in a furnace where the glass is heated to a point where it flows but does not pour.

2. Use:

• Fused glass: Often used to cast glass forms, such as vases, glass tiles, and sculptures.
• Fusing: Used to create various types of decorative and functional items, such as glass tiles, jewelry, mosaic tiles, and decorative panels.

3. Temperature and processing time:

• Fused glass: Requires a higher temperature and longer processing time than fusing.
• Fusing: Requires lower temperatures and shorter processing time as the aim is to preserve the shape of the glass.

One of the primary advantages of fused glass vessels is their luminous and translucent quality. When light passes through the layers of glass, it creates a mesmerizing play of colors and patterns, adding depth and vibrancy to the artwork. Additionally, fused glass vessels are highly durable and resistant to chipping or scratching, making them suitable for everyday use.

Processing glass with the fusing technology takes much less time than it takes for porcelain or glass. With a clear concept and if there are no problems in the baking process – three days. With molten glass, this process can take days. For a glass product, which is about 10 cm thick, it takes at least 3 days. For thicker products – it can take up to 3 months under controlled temperatures. One of the Czech master painters, who was a student of Libanski, at one of his presentations told how he made a glass sarcophagus for the Queen of Denmark, who ordered it to be ready for the time when she will leave this world.

Moreover, the materials and equipment needed for glass fusing can be costly, which may deter some artists from exploring this medium. Despite these challenges, the breathtaking beauty and durability of fused glass vessels continue to attract artists seeking to push the boundaries of their craft.

picture: by Anelka from Pixabay

Pottery Vessels ( Porcelain and Ceramics):

Porcelain and ceramic are two materials that are similar but also have differences.

1. Composition and production:

Porcelain is a type of ceramic made from high-quality materials such as kaolin, quartz and felspar, which are fired at very high temperatures. Ceramics can be made from different types of clay and other raw materials and are fired at lower temperatures.

2. Density and transparency:

Porcelain is denser and more transparent than standard ceramics. This makes it more resistant to moisture and more suitable for use in food items such as cups and plates.

3. Durability and resistance:

Porcelain is generally more durable and more resistant to high temperatures than standard ceramics. It is less prone to scratching and is easy to clean.

4. Cost:

Porcelain is generally more expensive than standard ceramics due to the higher demands on raw materials and the manufacturing process.

Manufacture of ceramics or porcelain

1. Preparation of materials:

The raw materials are usually prepared in the factory and are bought ready with the required consistency and content depending on the required size of the work to be performed.

Formation of vessels:

• After the mixture is prepared, it is formed into the desired shapes by various methods.
• To achieve the desired shape, ceramic vessels can be shaped on a ceramic bar, in molds or using specialized machines.

3. Drying:

• The pottery forms are allowed to dry, usually in air, to evaporate the moisture.
• This process at least a few days, depending on the size and thickness of the dishes.

4. Processing and decoration:

After drying, the ceramic vessels are treated to remove any irregularities or defects.

5. It is then baked to 910 degrees Celsius.

Various decoration techniques can be applied in this phase such as hand painting, glazing, burning decorations or applying special decorative elements.

6. Baking:

Finally, the ceramic vessels are fired in a kiln at high temperatures of around 1100 degrees Celsius, where the chemical properties of the materials change and the shape and decoration of the products are fixed.

Generally speaking, porcelain is a higher quality and refined material used for finer and more delicate items, while ceramic is a simpler and widely used material suitable for a variety of types of items and applications.

Pottery also offers artists a more accessible and cost-effective medium compared to fused glass. With basic tools and materials, artists can create pottery vessels in a relatively short amount of time, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned artisans alike.

However, pottery vessels may be more susceptible to breakage or damage compared to fused glass vessels, especially if not properly fired or glazed. Additionally, the porous nature of clay makes pottery vessels more prone to absorbing liquids (if not glazed), which may limit their functionality in certain contexts. Despite these challenges, the timeless appeal and versatility of pottery vessels continue to inspire artists around the world.

Conclusion:

In the debate between fused glass vessels and pottery ones, there is no clear winner, as both mediums offer unique advantages and appeal to different sensibilities. Fused glass vessels shine with their luminous beauty and durability, while pottery vessels enchant with their touchable appeal and flexibility. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on the preferences of the artist, the intended use of the vessel, and the aesthetic qualities desired.

Whether crafted from molten glass or fired clay, both fused glass and pottery vessels have earned their place as cherished expressions of human creativity and ingenuity. As artists continue to explore and innovate within these mediums, the boundaries of possibility are pushed ever further, enriching our lives with their beauty and craftsmanship. Whether you find yourself drawn to the shimmering allure of fused glass or the earthy warmth of pottery, one thing is certain – both have the power to inspire and delight for generations to come.