British Universities Film & Video Council

moving image and sound, knowledge and access

Potbank

Synopsis
A record of the last bottle-oven firing in the Potteries in August 1978 at the Gladstone Pottery Museum. Craftsmen who had not placed saggars for twenty five years returned for this unique occasion to do it one more time. Other stages in the manufacture of pottery in the 19th century are included. The development of the pottery industry and the latest manufacturing techniques are shown. Within the last 25 years nearly all bottle ovens in the Potteries have been demolished and the Clean Air Act prevents another coal fired bottle oven firing. The film records a once commonplace sight to a background of authentic Potteries folksongs.
Language
English
Country
Great Britain
Medium
Film; Film. 16mm. sd. col. 25 min.
Technical information
Black-and-white / Sound
Year of production
1980
Availability
Hire
Uses
Industrial archaeology, craft and pottery courses. Also useful in conservation discussions.*
Subjects
Archaeology; Crafts
Keywords
history of technology; industrial archaeology; kilns; manufacturing industries; pottery

Credits

Director
Jennifer Tann
Writer
Jennifer Tann
Contributor
Nigel E Haverly

Distribution Formats

Type
Film
Format
16mm

Sponsor

Name

Crafts Council of Great Britain

Distributor

Name

Aston University, Photographic Services, Birmingham B4 7ET, Tel 0121-359 3611 ext 4349

Record Stats

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