Ceramic Sculpture FAQ's

Equus Studio - Artist Jen Pratt

How long do ceramic sculptures last?

• There are many examples of clay sculptures lasting for hundreds, sometimes thousands of years. Many horse sculptures are still around from ancient Chinese dynasties, dating back hundreds of years. There are exhibitions even today at major metropolitan museums showcasing ceramic sculptures from West Mexico dating back to 300 - 400 B.C., almost two thousand years ago. In its fired form, clay is very durable, and when kept in a home environment can be passed down generation after generation.

How do I care for a sculpture?

• Ceramic sculptures are very easy to take care of . The best way to handle them is to pick them up with one hand by the bulkiest part of the body (the neck under the chin for horse heads, the main part of the body for figures). Use the other hand to support the bottom of the base.
• Cleaning the sculptures is simply done by dusting them with a soft feather duster. Be gentle around delicate areas such as the ears or legs. Occasionally (usually no more than 2 - 3 times a year) you can wipe them down with a soft damp cloth. Use only water, no chemicals or cleaning agents as they can damage the finish, and wring out the extra water before using. Do not leave standing water on the sculpture or on its base.

Can a sculpture be fixed if it is damaged?

• Ceramic sculptures can be fixed, especially if it is a minor break. Small parts like ears, legs, or bridle pieces can be reattached without a seam, so the piece looks as if it was never broken. Larger breaks can be more difficult, but unless a sculpture is shattered it is usually quite repairable. The entire piece will be repainted to give it a seamless look when finished.

How are ceramic sculptures made?

• See ClaySculpture.us to view how Jen's sculptures are made and detailed information on the sculpture process.

Can I place the sculpture outside?

• These sculptures were made to be kept indoors, and will be damaged if they get wet.

What does the term "Original" mean?

• When pertaining to artworks it means that there are no copies of that artwork. When you purchase an original sculpture from Equus Studio, it is the only work of its kind, it is the hand-sculpted artwork produced by the artist.

What is the process used to create the limited edition prints?

• All limited edition prints are archival, professional quality prints, printed from a Canon Pixma Pro9500 printer. The printer uses a 10-color pigment ink system that resists the damaging effects of light for up to 100 years. Unless otherwise stated, images will be printed onto a matte photo paper which is archival in nature and resists the yellowing effects of age. Any other papers that may be used will be archival in nature, and the description of the artwork will specify exactly the type of paper used.

Quality of prints?

• Limited edition prints from Equus Studio are archival, long lasting, and of professional photo lab quality. Each print shows exceptional detail and is indistinguishable from the original from which it is taken.

See the Ordering/Shipping page for information on the ordering process and shipping artworks.

If you have any other questions, feel free to contact us. Your questions will be answered by email and may be added to this list to help others!