Dravšnik Nativity

This nativity was handmade by Silva Dravšnik from Slovenia. The figurines are made of stoneware which differs from earthenware, using a potters wheel. Silva has used this technique for over 20 years creating many different figurines, both religious and non-religious.

The difference between stoneware and earthenware is twofold: first, the type of clay and second, the firing temperature. Earthenware uses low-fire clay. The firing temperature is up to 1,000 degrees F. Earthenware is porous when fired. Glazes used in earthenware are usually colorful, though there are exceptions. Examples of earthenware are bricks, flower pots, sculpture such as Raku pottery, Pueblo pottery, maiolica, and more.

Stoneware is made using high-fire clay, which is not porous when fired. The firing temperature is in the range of 2100 – 2372 degrees F. Stoneware glazes tend toward an earthy look, though there are exceptions. It is often used for handmade dinnerware, pitchers, outdoor ceramic sculpture, and handmade floor and wall tiles.