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faux twig handles

updated fri 1 feb 02

 

Kate Johnson on thu 31 jan 02


This is not helpful to the person that wanted to use REAL twigs, but I just
had to mention this lovely Chinese teapot I got at an antiques store, JUST
for its handle, essentially--though the "curled leaf" spout and the litte
gourd attached to the end of the handle for no other reason than it looks
good are charming too.

I love to combine naturalistic elements in my pots, at times--leaves, vines,
etc., so just had to buy this old teapot. The handle REALLY looks like real
wood, save for the gloss. It must have been extruded, somehow, and made
from rather short clay, because it has a lot of surface cracks. There are
two "vines" twined together, with longitudinal depressions in them as
well...what a knockout, as well as an inspiration! My vines still look like
clay...

Anyone ever seen one like this? It says it's not for food use on the
bottom, and the maker's mark is a chop mark stamped in...

Best--
Kate

m markey on thu 31 jan 02


Hi Everybody!

Out here in the desert, I've seen local art using twigs and sticks from the
creosote and indigo shrubs that abound in the Mojave Desert. Creosote is a
hardy wood, that bends well, even when dried out. The indigo bush is a bit
more fragile, but has a distinct pleasant scent.

While making art from found resources some time ago, I used the skeletal
remains of a cholla cactus. Though not structurally stout, these cactus
"insides" have a very fascinating 3-dimensional pattern of rectangular
holes, which decrease in size at the younger parts of the plant.

I certainly don't recommend using cactus remains on dishes or mugs--unless
you're providing an "S & M" party soon!

Best wishes!

Mohabee NakedClay@hotmail.com

Figuring out what I can do with three big boxes of Mojave Gourds--an
indigenous gourd that thrives above the septic tank leach fields out here.

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