Saeam Kwon, ceramic, vase, Moon Jar | matt black (SK16)
About the object: Saeam Kwon's Moon Jar, a bulbous ceramic vase, is approx. 12 cm high and has a diameter of approx. 13 cm. The fascinating vase made of black stoneware clay is unglazed on the outside, which makes the fine but rough and very expressive surface stand out. Saeam's objects are thin-walled and turned for weight reduction. In combination with the exciting surfaces, this creates an almost brutalist form. The inside of the vase is glazed transparent and therefore naturally waterproof. This classic shape made of porcelain stoneware combines minimalist design with traditional Korean influences. Beautiful!
Production process: Saeam creates her objects from black stoneware clay, mainly on the potter's wheel. The clay used has a high fireclay content and is rough. The dark anthracite to black color of the clay comes from iron and manganese oxides in the clay. Saeam uses one of her five "signature" glazes for the glazed objects, which she produces herself and mixes as required. Some pieces are only glazed on the inside and are semi-glossy to improve their functionality as tableware. The objects are fired in an electric kiln using oxidation firing in Saeam's studio. Each piece is fired twice: first at 950 °C and then again at 1250 °C. The unglazed works are high-fired until the clay body is completely vitrified. This makes the surface dense, non-porous and food-safe. Even without glaze, the vessels remain durable and hygienic for everyday use.
You can find more information about Saeam, her story and way of working here in the blog.
