Cote Sud

 STEP 1 SHAPING :

 The process begins at the potter's wheel where a piece of refined clay is shaped and then allowed to dry.

STEP 2 FIRING :

The ceramic piece goes throught it's first firing in the kiln. After this first firing, the piece is referred to " Biscotto" ( Bisque), a baked terra-cotta piece featuring the typical red color.

 STEP 3 THE GLAZING : 

Once cooled after the first firing, the ceramic piece is dipped in a fast drying powdery white glaze. This powdery white glaze will prevent the colors from spreading and blurring into each other during the painting process.

STEP 4 PAINTING :

A design is then skillfully painted on the ceramic piece by hand by an experienced and talented painter. The painter must understand the complexities of coloration, as the special paint used for the painting process all have a very similar Gray and Black tone. When the painter completes the ceramic piece, it must be handled with care because the special paint over the powdery white glaze can be wiped away with a single touch. The true and brilliant colors that Majolica is known for will be seen only after the piece emerges from the final firing in the kiln.

 STEP 5 FINAL FIRING :

The ceramic piece is then loaded into the kiln for the second and final firing. depending on the size of the ceramic piece, it may require up to 12 hours of firing at a constant high temperature. At conclusion of the firing, the ceramic piece, now referred to as Majolica, may have to cool in the kiln for up to another 12 hours. it is important that the kiln's door not be opened until the temperature is low enough or the Majolica could go into shock and crack. The word "Majolica" (also know as "Maiolica" or "Maioliche') should be used only to describe this type of glazed Italian pottery.