Description: According to Robert Copeland, "Manufacturing Processes of Tableware in the 18th and 19th Centuries," p. 104 "Sprigging is when shallow low relief clay ornamentation is applied to a clay surface having been formed in shallow molds of pitcher, or fired clay, in its biscuit state. This mould clay was formed of common clay with a larger amount of finely ground flint and fired to biscuit. This provided a sharp image for the sprig. The clay for the sprig is thumped into the mould and scraped level. A curved spatula-like tool is used to stroke the clay and the suction caused assists the clay to be withdrawn from the mould. Each sprig is placed on a dampened plaster bat until all necessary sprigs are assembled. The surface of the pot is wetted and each sprig placed in its correct position and lightly pressed down so that it adheres completely." Rectangular shaped sprig mold made of white stoneware, carved design in low relief depicts a tree - perhaps of tropical origin like a date palm?; there is a small chip on the lower right hand side.
Subjects: Pottery; Stoneware Link to share this object record: https://museums.fivecolleges.edu/detail.php?t=objects&type=ext&id_number=HD+2009.13.3 |