Pottery Making – An Industry

Pottery making has gone a long, long way since the first pot was first invented and became a common kitchen tool in ancient households. It has transformed from being an ordinary handicraft into a sophisticated art as initiated by the Greek craftsmen who used geometric designs to decorate wine jars and other pottery. And over the years, pottery making has undergone a series or evolution. One particular event in history that has seen a significant metamorphosis in the sector is the industrial revolution which was driven about the rapid evolution in technology.

The industrial revolution and technological innovation that happened between the late 18th and the early 19th century has undoubtedly transformed the trade of pottery into an industry. It is in this period that many potters worldwide have adopted a rational approach to pottery manufacturing, solving problems in a more methodical and logical manner. Even with a minimum tool and lack of appropriate machinery, manufacturers of pottery and related products have developed and adopted a system to efficiently maximised their production capacity and improve product quality. Among the noteworthy strategies implemented during the period that are still applied in business today are the division of labour, organisation of labour, improved control of raw materials, rationalisation of production processes and marketing blueprint.

By the late 19th century, when advanced machinery and new techniques were introduced, the mass production of pottery started. The trade has metamorphosed into a full-bloom industry, which consequently marked the dawn of the potters' art. In many western countries, the quality of ceramics and china pottery has declined. Ceramic and pottery wares made in gaudy colours and inartistic designs and shapes have become popular. Thankfully, the effort of influential ceramic makers to bring back the artistic value of pottery has resulted into the revival of pottery making as an industry of art. Hence, despite pottery has become a commercial commodity, many pottery products such as table wares and jars continue to reflect the striking styles and artistic patterns developed by potters who are committed to their craft.

Today, pottery or what is now popular called as ceramics is a modern and a highly innovative industry, which supplies sanitary wares, table wares and tiles all over the world. Special ceramics are also now used in various industrial applications including those in the chemical and engineering industry. In addition, manufacturing has become more dependent on machine, but human skills remain its important base.