Throwing a Chinese gourd on the wheel

The Chinese also have a rich history of pottery and it is very well-documented already so I can't say anything authoritative about it but here's a fun video I found of a young, modern Chinese potter demonstrating a very ancient shape.

 

The gourd is a popular symbol in Chinese myth and legend and  represents a long life as traditionally, the pills of immortality were kept in a jade gourd. It shouldn't be surprising that Chinese potters, artists, sculptors and embroiderers should include its image in almost everything they made.

 

US Pottery History

Here are two interesting videos about the development of American pottery. I find it an interesting contrast to the Japanese ceramic history videos I posted earlier, especially in the area of maintaining traditions while expanding the artistic side of pottery. 

Here's Part Two.