Clay

Clay is one of the most well-known materials with a long history that spans millions of years. People have developed the art of forming clay to make ceramic objects, also known as pottery. As far back as 35,000 years ago, man invented this ceramic material to create figures for ritual purposes. Ancient people buried their dead in pottery urns, along with small ceramic containers of oils and perfumes, clay reproductions of servants and objects they believed the deceased might need in the afterlife. Clay was primarily made of just two simple ingredients: water and ground soil. With the development of new techniques, clay can also include minerals, potassium, sodium, calcium, aluminum oxide, and magnesium. Clay can be formed into different shapes. First, it is hand-carved with tools and then heated in the sun, fire, or special kilns. After the firing process, a ceramic piece can be decorated in various colors and designs. Fired pottery is solid and durable and it can last for up to tens of thousands of years. Ceramic pieces are an important source of information for historians, archaeologists and art collectors. These arti