What is chalkware?
The term chalkware concerns small decorative figures shaped or carved from plaster made of plaster; It is assumed that this artistic form was created in Europe, probably in Italy. These figures were very popular in the 18th and at the beginning of the 20th century as cheaper alternative ceramic pieces, but were very light and fine. Most characters were created using a two -piece form. They were usually painted in realistic colors and depicted the huge diversity of objects, including animals and flowers. Older pieces of chalkware in good condition are valuable for collectors; However, they are quite rare because of the fragile nature of figures and the tendency of color to withdraw.
during the 18th and at the beginning of the 20th century. Křík was a much more affordable alternative because it was made of cheaper plaster Plaster, and was easier and faster than ceramics. The first pieces of chalkware areconsidered as made in Italy, where there were very popular religious figures of icons, such as the Virgin Mary and Jesus, as well as another object from the Bible. The popularity of Chalkware has spread rapidly throughout the world due to its affordability, although it was more fragile than ceramic.
Most of the first chalkware characters have been created using molds, a technique that is still used to this day. Usually a two -piece mold is used to create the front and rear of the figure separately, then the halves are connected together. The finished piece is then painted, usually using a realistic color scheme. Many different types of color can be used; In the early years, the popular colors of watercolor and oils were popular, but in recent times temperatures and acrylic colors are often used. In modern times it is also possible to buy non -painted pieces that individuals can paint.
Křik in Chalkware showed different items and were cheapand abundant; For a while it was even normal carnival prices. Animals, birds and flowers have been very popular for a long time, but buildings, fruits and characters similar cartoon have also become common. In many cases, the numbers showed popular images of the time; For example, at the beginning of the 20th century during the popularity of Kewpie dolls, many kewpie figures were created.
Older pieces of chalkware in good condition are rare. The characters were very fragile and tend to bark, burst and break. In many cases, the color color would also be discarded and the effort to touch it would get worse because of the porous nature of the plaster. The whole figure with intact color is valuable for collectors and it is recommended that they are treated very carefully to prevent damage. In some cases, pieces with less damage also have value depending on the object.