blueglazed

blueglazed refers to a type of ceramic glaze that, when fired, produces a blue coloration. This blue hue is typically achieved through the use of cobalt oxide as a colorant within the glaze mixture. Cobalt is a well-known pigment in ceramics, capable of producing a wide spectrum of blues, from deep navy to vibrant turquoise, depending on the concentration of cobalt and the firing conditions.

The technique of blue glazing has a long history, with examples found in ancient pottery from various cultures. Notably, Chinese blue and white porcelain, a highly prized ceramic ware, utilizes cobalt blue underglaze decoration. This tradition spread and influenced pottery production across Asia and eventually to Europe and the Middle East.

Modern ceramicists continue to employ blue glazes for both decorative and functional purposes. The specific shade and effect of a blue glaze can be further modified by other ingredients in the glaze formula, such as tin oxide for opacity or iron oxide for subtle variations. Factors like kiln atmosphere (oxidation or reduction) during firing also significantly impact the final blue color. Blue glazes are applied to a variety of ceramic bodies, including earthenware, stoneware, and porcelain, contributing to the diverse aesthetic possibilities in ceramic art and craft.