Celadon and cobalt - Espresso cup

Jordan Ward-Williams is an Ely-based potter and an Assistant Professor of Chemical Engineering at the University of Cambridge. In 2023, he was the first Researcher-in-Residence at the Leach Pottery, where he worked to reduce the carbon emissions associated with craft pottery production.  

Jordan makes functional ceramics that use a variety of glaze techniques to create visual interest and layers of subtle colour. His work is influenced by traditional East Asian ceramics and their legacy in British studio pottery. Drawing on forms and glazes that have existed for over a thousand years, he explores how these ceramics can be made today, whilst respecting modern concerns over environmental sustainability and material accessibility. 

The designs use traditional Chinese and Japanese glazes fired in oxidation in an electric kiln. Instead of combining different colourants to try and mimic these traditionally reduction fired glazes, glazes are layered to create chemical reactions reflective of the reduction behaviour. 

As each piece is hand-thrown and hand-decorated, there will be slight variations in colour, design, and size between cups. 

Product details

• Ceramic mug, celadon glaze with cobalt oxide decoration
• Interior lined with tin white glaze
• Food safe and dishwasher safe
• Approx size: height 6.5cm, 5.5cm across at base, 4cm across at rim