In this workshop we learned the history of Comb Ceramic type of pottery.
In the hands-on process we first chose the type and colour of the clay. In ancient times the clay was dark red or brown, depending on the heat of the fire and the type of the clay.
First, we learned how to prepare (wedge) the clay. This means kneading it, kind of like kneading dough, to get rid of air bubbles and make it nice and smooth, because if there are air bubbles, the clay could crack when it’s fired.
Next step is shaping the pot. There are a few ways to do it. One way is to start with a ball of clay and use the thumb to make a dent in the middle, then pinch the sides to make the walls of the pot. Another option is to roll the clay into long, thin ropes, and then coil them on top of each other to build up the walls.
Exciting part is creating the comb pattern. We used actual combs and other tools with teeth or edges that can make interesting marks in the clay by pressing the tools into the soft clay to create lines, zigzags, or other designs. Experimenting with different pressures and angles will make different unique patterns.
Next step is to let the pots dry. This is very important. If the clay is too wet, it could crack when it’s fired.
The final step is firing the pot in a kiln, which is like a very hot oven. This hardens the clay and makes it into ceramic. This is a step that is usually done by the teachers, due to the high temperatures involved.
Learning about ancient pottery helps us understand how people lived long ago.
The Comb Ceramic culture, also known as Pit-Comb Ware was widely distributed in Estonia, already from 3900–1750 BC. Pottery from that time often had pointed or rounded bottoms, perfect for storing food and liquids.
For decoration, comb-like tools were historically used for decoration. The patterned decoration, or “writing,” may have been intended to ward off evil and protect food. Families or communities had different patterns and also represented the wealth of the family or tribe.
Children enjoyed the workshop and found it a calming and relaxing process combined with fascinating stories from the past traditions.
