POTTERY. 
53 
suitable clay can be obtained in many parts 
of the island. There are three methods of 
working the clay that must be considered 
separately. 
1. By Hand. All stones are picked out of 
the clay which is then soaked with as much 
water as it will absorb. Fine sand is added 
and the whole thoroughly kneaded. The 
worker now takes a block of the prepared 
clay, and, with his hands, repeatedly digs 
into the centre, pressing out and shajung as 
desired. The article, after being dried in the 
sun, is ready to be placed in the furnace for 
hardening. 
2. Plaster of Paris Moulds. The use of 
these moulds has been termed “ the most in- 
genious art of the potter” and it is first with 
incredulity, and then with astonishment, that 
the uninitiated laymen learns of this process. 
To prepare the clay for use it is soaked in an 
excess of water, thoroughly stirred, and strain- 
ed through a hue sieve — sufficient water 
should have been added to make it of a pea- 
soup consistency, — not unlike the Thames on 
a specially busy day, it is said. This liquid 
is then poured into the Plaster of Paris mould. 
On turning the mould over, after from ten to 
fifteen minutes, a quantity of the liquid will 
run out, but, securely clinging to the sides, 
will be left an even layer of moderately firm 
clay, about f in. thick — the water originally 
in this portion having been absorbed by the 
mould. In a day or two this hardens suffi- 
ciently to be taken out of the mould. It is 
then “ trimmed” with a wet rag ; handle or 
