THE CREATION OF A PIECE
ALIX D. REYNIS
IN THE PARISIAN WORKSHOP
Once the inspiration is found, a plaster model is made on the lathe. A first plaster mould is made from this model. In order to assess the final result of the piece, a prototype is cast in this mould. Once these prototypes have been validated, production tools are made:
- A mould, or "mother", is made from the first mould. This can be made of plaster or silicone.
- The production moulds used by the factory are all cast in plaster on the mother mould (they are the exact replica of the first mould).
AT THE MANUFACTURE OF LIMOGES
Porcelain is a "memory" paste, therefore it is necessary to be extremely careful, attentive and delicate, because if a blow, even a light one, is given to it, the piece will be deformed during the high temperature firing. The pieces are left to dry and then fired for the first time at 980° (the so-called "degourdi" firing). After the first firing, the pieces are glazed: they are dipped one by one in a bath of glaze that gives the porcelain "cookie" its glaze. High-temperature firing: the pieces are fired again at 1400°, at which temperature the porcelain acquires its transparency, whiteness and strength. The pieces in porcelain are ready for everyday use (dishwasher, microwave and oven safe).
WHITE GOLD, PORCELAIN
Porcelain is the noblest and whitest of ceramics: it is also known as white gold or the queen of ceramics. It is the most timeless and refined of all materials, historically used for royal services. Thin and translucent, yet resistant to everyday wear and tear, it is microwave, oven and dishwasher safe.
