Flambé

Over 500 years ago Chinese potters first experimented with copper oxide glazes to create a fiery red finish that became known as "flambé". Over the generations, the recipes for these brilliant colored glazes had largely been forgotten. Armed with little technical information, Royal Doulton Art Director John Slater and his companion, Charles Noke, sought to revive the ancient technique. After innumerable experiments and two years worth of hard work, the Doulton company was ready to exhibit their wares at the St. Louis Exhibition in 1904. The effect was tremendous and the success was immediate. Experimentation with reduction glazes continued throughout WWI and particular attention was given to gain control over the mottled and veined effects associated with these high temperature firings.

Today Royal Doulton's flambé and other transmutation glazes are admired and desired throughout the art world. Their unique characteristics assure a constant demand among collectors.