Janet Kaiser on thu 11 sep 03
Rhian Templeman is a potter we represent, who never makes truly
functional jugs or pitchers, although she does make lovely,
finely thrown and decorated "very usable" teapots, tea bowls,
mugs, trays, sushi dishes, trays, platters, etc. in one-off sets.
RT jugs are tall narrow cylinders with the indication of a
pouring lip cut out of the side plus a broad thin strap handle,
however the balance is all wrong for pouring and the handle is
uncomfortable to hold. This is all quite intentional as she calls
them "jug vases" and does not want people trying to use them as
jugs. The handle is more a support to stop the vase slipping
though one's hand when holding/carrying filled with flowers and
water. This thoughtful design is exceedingly welcome to people
with poor grip or other weaknesses which make carrying anything
over a pound or two a considerable task.
And as she says, the modern home very rarely uses a jug of this
size (12 to 14 inches high) for milk, juice or water not least
because the racks in British fridges are too small (not deep
enough) however, we all still see jugs / pitchers / ewers as less
of a luxury than a vase and can rationalise our extravagance. I
think it is a clever way for a potter to overcome the reluctance
of some people to buy what they regard as a "luxury" item. A vase
could be considered thus, whereas a jug certainly is OK, even
though it is not really necessary in today's world.
In my childhood, we would have died of shame if caught with a
plain glass 1 pint milk bottle on the table by surprise callers
or neighbours. Today a half gallon complete with label and price
tag would not look amiss... And yet I continue to wonder why some
people (usually under the age of 40) have difficulty pouring from
jugs no matter what the size. Aren't I silly the silly one...?
No, don't answer that!
Sincerely
Janet Kaiser - slowly bringing all the plants in for the
winter... Autumn is truly here in Wales... Saw some children
playing conkers today and the pungent smell of cooking preserves
wafts out of many a local "Harvest Home". It is the time when the
shops run out of vinegar and some of the more common spices...
Even had to make up my own pickling spice today. Must go appling
tomorrow...
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