At Burleigh, tradition and technique go hand in hand. For our larger bowls, we rely on one of the oldest machines in our entire factory - a hand jollier. In fact, we believe we may be among the very last in the country still using this kind of equipment in a working pottery. Less a machine and more a series of clever mechanical aids, the hand jollier is a Victorian innovation, designed to bring consistency and speed to a process.
While technology has marched on, at Burleigh we always choose the path that gives the best result—not just in form, but in feeling. The hand jollier offers the best of both worlds: the guiding hand of the potter, and a beautifully consistent result.
The process begins with the selection of a mould that will determine the outer shape of the bowl. A tool is chosen to cut the inner profile. Now we need the prepared clay. The jollier—the skilled craftsperson operating the machine—prepares the fine Earthenware clay by forming a useful shape first. A lump is ‘batted out’ by hand into a flat disc on flat plaster turntable, which is powered and controlled via a knee-operated clutch. This allows the jollier to adjust the speed with precision and care.
Next, the flattened clay is placed onto a felt support called a ‘chum’ lifted and pressed gently into the mould. With an experienced touch and the help of handcrafted tools, the jollier coaxes the clay into every curve. The profile tool is then brought down to create the final inner surface, while excess clay is trimmed away by hand.
The freshly formed bowl still residing in its mould is carefully lifted and placed on a rack to dry, once dry it will shrink slightly making it much easier to remove. A new mould is prepared for the next piece. The process is rhythmical, physical, and deeply skilled.
Understanding the time, attention, and heritage behind every large and medium footed bowl reveals just how much of the story of what we do is shaped into every piece of Burleigh ware. Each bowl is not just a beautiful object—it is a testament to the potter’s craft, and to our enduring belief in doing things properly.