Ceramics collection should also pay attention to maintenance
Pottery Articles
Pottery is crafted from inorganic materials like river sediments and clay, which are fired at temperatures ranging from 800 to 900 degrees Celsius. This process makes the material hard and durable. However, due to its composition, pottery tends to be opaque with small pores and high water absorption. These properties make it more prone to damage when exposed to moisture or temperature fluctuations.
Because of its relatively low compressive strength compared to porcelain, pottery is more fragile and susceptible to breakage. It's important to handle it carefully, avoiding any collisions or pressure. Small items should be stored in boxes to prevent friction, while larger pieces need to be placed on stable shelves. Never stack large pottery items directly on top of each other.
Pottery’s porous nature allows it to absorb a lot of water, along with soluble salts and other contaminants. When temperature changes occur, these salts can crystallize and dissolve repeatedly, causing internal stress and eventual degradation. For unglazed pottery, avoid touching it with wet or dirty hands, as stains are extremely difficult to remove once absorbed. Painted pottery requires special attention—check for signs of pigment aging and consider using a 10% polyvinyl acetate solution if needed.
Glazed pottery is stronger and more resistant to heat than regular pottery, but the glaze layer must remain intact. If the glaze is damaged, salt can seep into the body, leading to long-term deterioration. Over time, this can cause white spots and even flaking of the glaze. If the bond between the glaze and the body is strong, washing with water may help remove the salts. If not, a polymer fixative should be used before washing. For very old or fragile pieces, a paper-pulp method can be effective—using absorbent paper like filter paper to draw out the salts through repeated applications.
Porcelain Articles
Porcelain is denser, harder, and smoother than pottery, with minimal porosity and excellent resistance to water absorption. Its structure contains a high amount of glassy material and mullite crystals, making it less vulnerable to pests, gases, and moisture. However, despite its durability, porcelain is still brittle and can be easily damaged by impacts or pressure.
The most important aspect of porcelain preservation is protection against shocks, crushing, and collisions. Small porcelain pieces should be stored individually in boxes to prevent friction, while larger items need to be placed on stable racks away from potential falling objects. Although porcelain is not affected by harmful gases, certain chemicals like alkalis can corrode the glaze, and strong acids may alter the surface gloss and color. Therefore, it's crucial to keep porcelain away from pollution sources.
If porcelain becomes stained, it can usually be cleaned with water, but avoid using harsh chemical cleaners that might harm the glaze. In case of minor damage such as cracks or chips, do not attempt major repairs yourself. For deep-bottom cracks caused by impact, clean the area, cover it with cotton strips, and apply concentrated sulfuric acid (80–90% concentration) to the crack. Seal the piece and open it every other day for several times, then use a clear, fast-drying epoxy resin adhesive to secure the repair.
Kiln cracks, which form during the firing process, are generally less severe than human-caused damage but still require attention. If left untreated, they can worsen under humid conditions, causing uneven expansion and contraction of the body. Similarly, punching damage—fine cracks on the surface caused by external force—can gradually spread over time. These can often be treated by soaking in "84 disinfectant" to remove yellow stains, followed by the same fixing method as for bottom cracks. Avoid applying too much glue to preserve the appearance.
Proper care of both pottery and porcelain collections depends on understanding their unique properties. Collectors should choose storage methods based on the specific material and condition of each item to ensure long-term preservation.
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