The Robert Siegel Handmade Process
At Robert Siegel Handmade™, a combination of traditional and new throwing techniques is employed. Each piece is created one at a time, hand detailed and hand glazed. As a result, each piece of Robert Siegel pottery has its own distinct character and beauty. The preparation of the clay, the throwing of the pottery on the wheel, the glazing and firing of the pots are all aspects of Robert Siegel’s craftsmanship. Robert Siegel Handmade products are made of high-quality porcelain. The clay is prepared by hand wedging prior to throwing to give it an even consistency.
Using just hands and water, the clay is centered on the pottery wheel and then various techniques and tools are used to pull the clay upward and shape the walls of the vessel. Should decorative details, such as handles or spouts need to be formed, tools called “ribs” are utilized. Once the clay has hardened, the pot is turned over, a foot trimmed into the pot and each piece stamped with the RS chop. This marking, is the trademark of Robert Siegel Handmade and can be found on the side or bottom of all Robert Siegel pieces.
Robert Siegel Handmade, uses a bisque kiln for firing. It is an extra step in the handmade process, but makes glazing and handling more reliable. Over many hours, pottery that is placed into the kiln is heated to remove all moisture and then cooled. Once the pots are removed, the application of colorful liquid glazing is performed. The pots are then placed in the glaze kiln for a final firing to cure the surface of the pot and bring about its intended color.
Once the glazing process is finished, the pottery is examined and any feet of the pots are stoned for sand and rough spots removed. Any piece that does not meet Robert Siegel Handmade quality or has a structural flaw is thrown away.
The RS chop mark visible on every piece is the Robert Siegel trademark of handmade quality.
Robert Siegel Handmade utilizes only the highest of quality porcelain as well as hundreds of glaze colors.
