The famous chimney pots of Poling pottery

Peter's father, Charles Carver, working in Poling Pottery

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Until its closure in 1957 there had been a pottery on the same site in Poling for almost 200 years.

In the latter years a great deal of the pottery produced consisted of flower pots for commercial nurseries.

Nevertheless, a significant quantity of ornamental and Sunday ware was still being made during this period, especially the famous Poling chimney pots.

One of these chimney pots is on display in Arundel Museum.

One of the Poling chimney pots which is on display at Arundel Museum.

The art of making pottery by hand has remained unchanged over the years.

It begins by taking a slab of clay and moulding it into balls of equal size,  known as ‘pugs’.

A ‘pug’ would be placed onto the centre of the potter’s wheel.

By applying pressure with thumbs and cupped hands whilst using copious amounts of water, the transformation from lowly ‘pug’ to finished article begins.

The potter’s hands draw the clay upwards to form the shape required.

A pattern can be made on the side, using a tool known as a ‘rib’.

This is how the pattern on the chimney pot would have been made. When completed, the finished article is separated from the wheel by drawing a thin wire under its base.

It is then transported into a board with the others, to begin the drying process, prior to firing in the kiln.

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