ceramicsearthenware

Earthenware is a type of pottery that has been used for millennia. It is characterized by its porous nature, low firing temperature, and typically opaque quality. The clay used for earthenware is generally less refined than that used for other ceramic types. Earthenware is fired at relatively low temperatures, usually between 900 and 1150 degrees Celsius (1650 and 2100 degrees Fahrenheit). This lower firing temperature results in a more porous body that is susceptible to water absorption unless it is glazed.

Historically, earthenware has been produced in many cultures around the world. Its accessibility and ease of working with the clay made it a common material for everyday domestic wares, such as cooking pots, storage vessels, and simple tableware. The unglazed state of earthenware makes it permeable, which can be advantageous for certain uses like storing water, as some evaporation can occur through the pores, keeping the contents cool.

To make earthenware waterproof and suitable for food and drink, it is typically covered with a glaze. Glazes can be lead-based, tin-based, or alkaline, depending on the historical period and region of production. Tin glazes, in particular, were developed to create an opaque white surface that could be decorated with vibrant colors, leading to well-known types like majolica and delftware. Despite its porosity and relative fragility compared to stoneware or porcelain, earthenware remains a significant part of ceramic history and is still produced today for both decorative and functional purposes.