Language/Armenian/Culture/Armenian-Ceramics-and-Pottery

Armenian → Culture → Armenian Ceramics and Pottery

Introduction

In this lesson, we will explore the rich history and techniques of Armenian ceramics and pottery. Armenian ceramics is a prominent art form and it has a significant place in the country's cultural heritage. Armenian pottery is famous for its intricate designs and high-quality craftsmanship. In this lesson, we will learn about the unique features, history, and techniques of Armenian ceramics and pottery.

History of Armenian Ceramics and Pottery

Armenian pottery has a long and rich history dating back to the Bronze Age. Archaeologists have found evidence of pottery created by the inhabitants of the ancient city of Shengavit, located in present-day Yerevan, and it is believed to be one of the oldest examples of ceramics in the world.

Throughout the centuries, Armenian artisans developed their own unique style, influenced by various cultures and civilizations, including Persian, Greek and Roman. During the Medieval period, Armenian ceramic art reached its zenith. Beautiful pottery pieces were created for the royal courts and the nobility. These pieces were decorated with intricate designs and motifs, such as geometric patterns, floral designs and miniature paintings.

After the Armenian Genocide, many master potters fled to Lebanon, Syria and Palestine, where they continued to create Armenian-style pottery. Today, Armenian ceramics are still popular and highly regarded throughout the world.

Techniques of Armenian Ceramics and Pottery

Armenian pottery is handcrafted, with each piece taking several hours to make. The techniques used in Armenian pottery have been passed down through generations of artisans, and these techniques have remained largely unchanged over time.

One of the most important techniques used in Armenian pottery is the use of the potter's wheel. The potter's wheel is used to shape the clay into the desired shape, such as a vase or a bowl. The Armenian potters use a special type of clay, which is composed of two colors, red and white, and this gives the pottery its distinctive appearance.

The process of glazing is another important technique used in Armenian pottery. A glaze is applied over the surface of the pottery to make it shiny and durable. The glazes used in Armenian pottery are usually made from natural materials, such as feldspar, quartz, and nepheline syenite, and they are fired at a high temperature.

The decorative motifs used in Armenian pottery are also an important characteristic of this art form. Armenian pottery designs are usually stylized, and the motifs include geometric patterns, floral designs, and animals. The colors used in Armenian pottery are bold and vibrant, and they are a hallmark of this art form.

Examples of Armenian Pottery and Ceramics

Armenian pottery is highly prized, and it is sold in various sizes and shapes. Some of the most common pieces of Armenian pottery include bowls, vases, jugs, and plates. The pottery is sometimes decorated with Armenian inscriptions or symbols, which add to its beauty and value.

One of the most famous examples of Armenian pottery is the traditional Armenian jug, known as the "kutahya". This jug is decorated with geometric patterns, and it can hold water or other liquids. Other examples of Armenian pottery include the "takir" (cup), "teytar" (saucer), and "chelebi" (ceremonial cup).

Vocabulary

Here are some vocabulary words related to Armenian pottery and ceramics:

Armenian	Pronunciation	English
խռովություն (khr̥ovutʼyun)	khr-o-voo-tyoon	pottery
պատճառ (pʼatʼchʼar)	pa-tchaar	reason
սնկներ (snkner)	snk-ner	designs
վարկանիշ (varkanish)	var-ka-nish	glaze
ճարտարապետ (chartarapet)	char-tar-a-pet	potter

Conclusion

Armenian ceramics and pottery is an important art form, and it is highly regarded for its unique style and intricate designs. In this lesson, we have learned about the history of Armenian pottery, the techniques used in creating this art form and examples of Armenian pottery. Through the study of Armenian ceramics and pottery, we gain a greater understanding and appreciation of Armenia's rich cultural heritage.

Related Lessons

• Chess and Chess Players
• Armenians in Diaspora
• Traditional Armenian Dances
• Armenian Footballers and Basketball Players
• Armenian Holidays and Festivals
• Wrestling and Weightlifting
• Armenian National Instruments
• Armenian Cuisine
• Modern Armenian Literature

Sources

• Armenian pottery | Hand painted in Jerusalem since 1919