#E ware pottery

[nosasblog]

The Location of King Bridei’s Fort: New Clues from Adomnán’s Life of Columba?

By Fiona Campbell-Howes In my talk for NOSAS in October, I spent some time discussing the episodes in Adomnán’s Life of St Columba (hereafter the Life) in which the holy man visits the Inverness area, which Adomnán locates in provincia Pictorum, in the province of the Picts. For this blog I want to take a closer look at those episodes. In particular, I want to see if they contain any…

[special-toons-au]

Special-Toons AU: Uncommon Character Sheets

Bios:

U-001: Brightney Shade ~ Top researcher within the walls of GardenView, Brightney Shade is responsible for the upkeep of all written information. Maintaining the archives alongside Rodger, she can usually be found either sorting out books and scrolls or planning out runs for the researching crew. Alongside being a researcher and librarian, she also acts as the center's medic/psychiatrist when needed. When she's not taking care of other matters, she can be found in her office reading or watching over Flutter.

U-002A/U-002B: Razzle & Dazzle Ribbon ~ The twin masks, Razzle and Dazzle Ribbon (commonly referred to as just Raz & Daz), are among the newer side of toons within GardenView. They are still trying to figure themselves out in the world that is the center, and with a few toons they can call friends they've been adjusting rather nicely. At least, Raz has; Daz still has a few issues he needs to work out before he can call himself comfortable. Nevertheless, they continue to roam the center's halls in hopes that one day their specialty reveals itself to them.

U-003: Teagan Ware ~ Gentle mother figure to all, Teagan Ware is the third oldest non-main toon within GardenView. Part of a close-knit adoptive family alongside Rodger, she spends her time either planning future tea parties or checking in on other toons. Despite her age, she remains youthful in both her playful bouts and throughout combat. It is not wise to make her too angry, however.

U-004: Rodger Stone ~ Well-known detective and investigator in GardenView, Rodger Stone is the toon responsible for the research regarding the lower depths. A passionate workaholic, he manages the archives alongside Brightney. Considered the father figure in the center, he can be commonly seen around Teagan and Toodles.

U-005: Toodles Stoneware ~ A toon with a pure heart, Toodles Stoneware is a happy face seen within GardenView. Adopted daughter of Rodger Stone and Teagan Ware, she spends her time decorating and creating gifts—especially pottery—to spread joy around the center. She looks up to her parents, hoping to one day be a stellar detective with a sense of style, as well as her adoptive siblings Glisten and Gigi. As of recent, she has considered Dazzle as a mentor figure to her.

U-006: Finn Sirenne ~ A toon fully committed to the siren motif, Finn Sirenne serves as both a lifeguard and the comic "reef"-lief at GardenView. Due to his aquatic features, he is able to swim e-"fish"-ently underwater and is one of the fastest toons in the center. Being one of the only known toons with claws (aside from Goob, Scraps, and Vee), he has a "betta" grip on surfaces both above and below the water and can inflict real "dam"-age in his primal state. If only he didn't crack so many jokes...

U-007: Connie Boolynski ~ A sweet yet sinister trickster, this undead diva can be seen floating around the walls of GardenView. With her powers of intangibility and invisibility, she can stir a ruckus if and when she so pleased. Being a fairly new toon, she sticks around Poppy and is rarely seen without her. Beware: she has the tendency to haunt various machines and electronics.

[grits-galraisedinthesouth]

Another wasted Soho House Tradwife "crafting" opportunity

When Meghan Markle of Sussex County complained to Daniel's friend Vicky about feeling broken, I actually thought they were preparing to do something constructive like share the beautiful artform of kintsugi. I was wrong, but here's a short video about kintsugi.

Kintsugi (Japanese: 金継ぎ, lit. 'golden joinery'), also known as kintsukuroi (金繕い, "golden repair"),[1] is the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery by mending the areas of breakage with urushi lacquer dusted or mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum. The method is similar to the maki-e technique.[2][3][4] As a philosophy, it treats breakage and repair as part of the history of an object, rather than something to disguise.

"Not only is there no attempt to hide the damage, but the repair is literally illuminated... a kind of physical expression of the spirit of mushin....Mushin is often literally translated as "no mind," but carries connotations of fully existing within the moment, of non-attachment, of equanimity amid changing conditions. ...The vicissitudes of existence over time, to which all humans are susceptible, could not be clearer than in the breaks, the knocks, and the shattering to which ceramic ware too is subject. This poignancy or aesthetic of existence has been known in Japan as mono no aware, a compassionate sensitivity, or perhaps identification with, [things] outside oneself."— Christy Bartlett, Flickwerk: The Aesthetics of Mended Japanese Ceramics

[friendswithclay]

“Bowl with incised decoration

From Nagada, cemetery A, or Ballas, grave C164'

Early Nagada IL, c. 3600 BC...

Ceramic and paste, 6.7 x 16 cm rim diam. (2 5/8 × 6¼ in.)

Egyptian Research Account, 1894-95

E 1410

The sides and rim of this bowl are decorated with what appear to be incisions filled with a white paste.? This decorative technique has been used to create two rows, one around the rim and another at the base, of repeating triangles with short zigzags. The craftsman most likely chose this triangular pattern because it is an easily reproduced shape and not because, as has been suggested, he intended to represent pyramids or mountains. The bowl's interior bears a light polish.

Although the bowl's simple shape of flaring sides, rounded rim, and flat base is com-mon, the use of incised decoration is generally considered to be a Nubian characteristic, which is typical of pottery from the region that includes the very southern part of Upper Egypt into what is today called Sudan.' This ware was uncommon in Upper Egyptian graves, and its rarity could be a result of nonlocal manufacture,* or it could reflect the fact that only a few people living in Egypt wanted such pottery.”

[ainfinitewonder]

Exploring the Beauty and Craftsmanship of Tenmoku Tea Cups

Tea has long been a cherished beverage across the globe, transcending cultures and centuries. It's not only about the taste but also about the experience – the soothing rituals, the delicate flavors, and, importantly, the vessels in which the tea is served. Among the most fascinating and revered types of tea cups is the Tenmoku tea cup. Known for their unique aesthetic and historical significance, Tenmoku cups offer a deep dive into the world of craftsmanship, culture, and timeless beauty. Whether you're an avid tea enthusiast or just beginning your journey into the world of tea, exploring the beauty of these finely crafted cups adds an extra layer of appreciation to your tea-drinking experience.

The Origins and History of Tenmoku Tea Cups

The history of Tenmoku tea cups is deeply rooted in the ancient art of Japanese pottery, where craftsmanship and tradition are passed down through generations. The name "Tenmoku" refers to a specific style of Chinese tea ware, initially created during the Song Dynasty in the 10th century. Over time, the style made its way to Japan, where it was embraced and further refined. Tenmoku tea cups are most commonly associated with the tea ceremony, a practice that dates back centuries and embodies mindfulness and precision.

In Japan, the Tenmoku tea cup gained popularity due to its ability to enhance the experience of drinking tea. The deep, glossy glazes of the cup reflect light in such a way that it elevates the visual appeal of the tea, adding another layer of artistry to the overall experience. These cups are typically handmade by skilled artisans, and each one carries with it the personality and craftsmanship of the potter who created it.

As a result, Tenmoku tea cups aren’t just functional; they’re works of art in their own right. They bridge the gap between form and function, embodying the intersection of aesthetics and practicality. Whether you’re using it for a formal tea ceremony or simply sipping tea at home, these cups provide a sense of connection to centuries of tradition.

The Aesthetic Appeal of Tenmoku Tea Cups

One of the most striking features of a Tenmoku tea cup is its glaze. The glaze used on these cups often has a rich, dark brown or black base, which is then enhanced by subtle streaks or spots of lighter color. This glaze can resemble the look of natural landscapes, with swirling patterns that evoke images of flowing rivers or mountain ranges. The process used to achieve this glazing effect is known as "ash glazing," where natural materials such as wood ash are applied to the surface of the pottery before firing.

The glazing process is what makes each Tenmoku tea cup truly unique. Unlike mass-produced cups, no two Tenmoku cups are ever identical. The glaze may vary from cup to cup, creating variations in color and texture that make each piece stand out. When held up to the light, the glaze often reveals depths of color and texture that transform the cup into something truly special. These unique qualities add to the allure of Tenmoku tea cups, as they seem to tell a story with every sip.

For those who appreciate craftsmanship, the creation of these cups is just as fascinating as their appearance. Each Tenmoku tea cup is carefully shaped by hand, often using traditional techniques that have been passed down over hundreds of years. The skill required to achieve the perfect glaze and shape takes years to master, which is why Tenmoku cups are so highly valued by collectors and tea enthusiasts alike.

Tenmoku tea cup makers often use a variety of clay bodies to create their cups, and this can also influence the final look of the piece. Some potters use stoneware clay, while others may use porcelain or earthenware. The type of clay used, combined with the specific firing techniques, contributes to the final color, texture, and feel of the tea cup. This attention to detail and the constant experimentation with new techniques ensure that Tenmoku cups continue to evolve while retaining their traditional essence.

The Craftsmanship Behind Tenmoku Tea Cups

What truly sets Tenmoku tea cups apart is the craftsmanship that goes into creating each piece. The process starts with the careful selection of clay. High-quality clay ensures that the tea cup will be both durable and beautiful. Once the clay is prepared, the potter will begin shaping the cup by hand or on a wheel. The shape of the cup is important, as it is designed to be both comfortable in the hand and aesthetically pleasing.

After the shaping process, the cup undergoes the crucial step of glazing. As mentioned earlier, the glaze used on Tenmoku cups is often a dark, glossy finish that gives the cup its signature look. The glaze is carefully applied to the surface of the cup, and the piece is then fired in a kiln. The firing process is a delicate balance – too hot, and the glaze could burn; too cold, and the desired effects won’t be achieved.

Once fired, the Tenmoku tea cup is given time to cool, allowing the glaze to fully settle and reveal its characteristic patterns. The final product is a harmonious blend of form and function, with the glaze giving the cup its lustrous shine while maintaining its earthy, organic feel.

The Unique Experience of Drinking Tea from a Tenmoku Cup

Tea drinking is an experience in itself – the aroma, the warmth, and the taste all come together to create a moment of serenity. When you drink tea from a Tenmoku tea cup, however, the experience becomes even more elevated. The smooth texture of the cup, combined with its beautiful glaze, creates a sensory experience that goes beyond just the taste of the tea.

The cup’s design is also practical. The lip of the cup is often slightly flared, making it easier to sip from, and the shape of the cup allows the tea to cool at a steady rate, enhancing the flavors. This is particularly important for those who appreciate the subtle nuances in different types of tea. The hand-crafted nature of the Tenmoku tea cup ensures that it is not just a vessel for tea but an integral part of the tea ceremony itself.

Drinking from a Tenmoku cup allows you to engage with the ritual of tea in a more profound way. The act of holding the cup, feeling its weight and texture, and observing the beauty of the glaze all contribute to a heightened awareness of the present moment. This mindfulness is at the heart of the Japanese tea ceremony, where the simple act of sipping tea becomes a deeply spiritual experience.

The Cultural Significance of Tenmoku Tea Cups

Tenmoku tea cups are more than just beautiful objects – they are steeped in cultural significance. In Japan, the tea ceremony is an integral part of the country’s cultural heritage. The ceremony emphasizes mindfulness, respect, and the beauty of imperfection, and Tenmoku cups fit perfectly within this philosophy. Their handcrafted nature and unique designs are a reflection of the Japanese appreciation for the beauty of imperfection, known as wabi-sabi.

In the context of the tea ceremony, the Tenmoku tea cup symbolizes much more than a mere drinking vessel. It is a representation of the care, precision, and tradition that goes into preparing the tea, as well as the connection between the tea drinker and the natural world. The swirling patterns in the glaze evoke the natural beauty of landscapes, and the earthy feel of the cup reminds us of the interconnectedness of nature and humanity.

As you sip tea from a Tenmoku tea cup, you become part of a long tradition that spans centuries and cultures. The cup serves as a bridge to the past, allowing you to experience the same rituals and mindfulness that generations before you have cherished.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tenmoku tea cups are more than just functional tea vessels – they are exquisite works of art that embody the rich history and culture of the tea-drinking world. Their unique glazes, craftsmanship, and connection to the tradition of the Japanese tea ceremony make them a truly special addition to any tea lover’s collection. Whether you’re drawn to the aesthetic beauty of these cups or their cultural significance, there’s no denying the profound impact they have on the tea-drinking experience.

Each Tenmoku tea cup is a masterpiece in its own right, telling a story of craftsmanship, history, and the art of tea. Drinking from one is a reminder to slow down, appreciate the moment, and immerse yourself in the timeless tradition of tea.

[foggynightdonut]

Qurayyah near Dhat al Hajj along with Syria Hajj route

The oasis of Qurayyah, located ca. 70 km northwest of the modern city of Tabuk and 26 Km west-south west of Bir Ibn Hirmas, the Saudi Arabian customs stations on the Hejaz railway, belongs geo-morphologically to the western fringes of the depression of oases and dry lake beds composing the al-Muhtatab basin, the region called Lihh (Parr et al. 1970). The area is characterised by broken sandstone and shale hills crossed by innumerable wadis carrying a great amount of flood water that can be immediately utilized by means of dams and channels. Flat topped jebels with a uniform appearance rise to a series of steep rock faces and flat terraces (Parr et al. 1970).

Though the region is only starting to be explored systematically, Qurayyah has been repeatedly described as one of the largest and most significant sites in Northwestern Arabia. Because of its size, location and the presence of seemingly late second millennium BC material on its surface, it is said to have been not simply a strategic trade settlement on the main road in antiquity, connecting the Hejaz with Egypt (Fig. 1) but also the capital of the Kingdom of the Midianites (Al-Ghazzi 2010), a people well attested in the Old Testament, Classical sources and the Qur'an as living in the region of Sinai and Northwest Arabia in a period coinciding with the exodus.

While a consistent core of historical geographical information can be gleaned from written sources, none pinpoint precisely the location of Midian beyond a generic limitation to Northwest Arabia, east of Canaan on the Red Sea and not far from Egypt (Chan in press). It is also clear that the different chronology of the historical sources is in need of a deep critical review.

The eside tial Area of the ste is oal-shaped, walled and extending for ca. 12 ha (Fig. 2, No. 5). The masonry is both made of stone and mud-bricks in this lower part of the site. Besides the area to the west where traces of buildings still standing are visible from the surface and interesting peculiarity is thedepression in the north-eastern part of the residential site, possibly an ancient lake (Ingraham et al. 1981), within the walled enclosure. Similar features are known in Bronze Age sites in the Levant (Qatna). The Saudi Comprehensive Survey (Ingraham et al. 1981, 73) interpreted the caves (Fig. 2, adjoining No. 2 and Fig. 4) as quarries exploited for extracting Kaolin rich clay and temper for producing the pottery that was fired in the close- Kl s aea, here large a ou ts of potter la on the surface.

While the explanation for the original function of the caves will have to be checked through excavation, we have observed a multitude of human and animal bones (Fig. 5) lying on the surface inside the caves. The human bones are a very apparent feature and while they not receive any kind of mention in the report of the 1980 survey, they were noticed in 1906 by Bernhard Moritz (Moritz 1908) and thus must be at least over one hundred years older or more.

Nowadays the Saudi authorities have erected an extended fence for protection of the site. We ould o fir the prese e i the Kil s area ig. No. of a high distri utio of potter slag a d asters. Besides noticing the virtually total absence of Nabataean or Roman pottery, we could identify and sample a very high number of so-alled Qurayyah pai ted are fi ished potter (Figs. 6 and 7) and wasters (Fig. 8). This evidence seems to point unequivocally to the fact that this area must have been in use for the production of pottery in the second millennium BCE.

Associated with this painted material were simple ware specimens that either revealed comparisons with Syro-Mesopotamian shapes or with Late Middle Bronze to Early Late Bronze Age simple ware shapes known from Square Q3 in Tayma (Luciani 2013). Also these revealed evidence of having being produced in situ in Qurayyah.

The ceramic specimen sampled in the so-alled otter Du p regio a d a area i fro t of it ig. Nos. a d hae reealed beyond Qurayyah pai ted are aso o-painted specimens with a wavy band relief, exactly as documented in Square Q3 at Tayma in association painted ware . This is alled ‘Bar ot e potter . While statisti all the prese e of ‘Bar ot e potter asso iatio Fg. 9 ithi these asse lages is al as li ited, its ith Qurayyah Painted Ware` (Figs. 6-10) may now be considered sure, both on the site of Qurayyah as well as Square Q3 at Tayma. For the latter we now have a radiocarbon date pointing to the late 15th to 14th century BCE.

However, the date of the extensive areas with traces of ancient agricultural fields and hydraulic infrastructure mapped by the English team must be verified in order to check whether or not it was precisely the development of this skilled irrigation agriculture that enabled to sustain the urban growth of the site during the second millennium BCE. Qurayyah appears to be not only an extremely vast but also a much diversified major settlement. Judging from the surface finds and preliminary survey of the architecture this very complex and articulated organisation of the settlement seems to be extant already in the latter part of the second millennium BCE. If this is so, Qurayyah ight hae ee a full ur a settle e t, a it-oasis De Maigret 1999) as early as the Late Bronze Age. However, only after excavation will have provided a reliable dating of these structures will it be possible to explain the roots and development of the urban character of the site of Qurayyah.

[bobbyimarc]

Global Handicrafts Market: Trends, Growth Drivers, and Future Outlook 2025-2033

The global handicrafts market size USD 906.8 billion in 2024. Projections indicate that this upward trajectory will continue, with expectations to reach USD 1,942.4 billion by 2033, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.83% during the forecast period. A growing consumer preference for unique, handmade products, the proliferation of e-commerce platforms, and an increasing emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly goods drives this surge.

Study Assumption Years:

Base Year: 2024

Historical Years: 2019-2024

Forecast Years: 2025-2033

Handicrafts Market Key Takeaways:

Market Size and Growth: In 2024, the global handicrafts market was valued at USD 906.8 billion, with forecasts predicting it will reach USD 1,942.4 billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 8.83% during 2025-2033.

Product Type Dominance: Woodware products currently hold the majority share in the market, reflecting consumer appreciation for traditional craftsmanship.

Distribution Channels: Mass retailers lead in distribution, but online stores are rapidly gaining traction due to the convenience and broader reach they offer.

End-Use Segments: The residential sector represents the largest market share, with consumers increasingly incorporating handcrafted items into home décor.

Regional Insights: North America currently dominates the global market, driven by a growing appreciation for artisanal products and robust e-commerce infrastructure.

Request for a sample copy of this report: https://www.imarcgroup.com/handicrafts-market/requestsample

Market Growth Factors:

The e-commerce expansion: E-marketing and electronic shopping create a big revolution in the handicrafts market so that it becomes easy for the artisans to reach the world. E-marketing and e-shopping have removed geographical barriers allowing the consumers all around the world to access all kinds of handcrafted products. The digital revolution has not only brought increasing sales but also allowed artisans to narrate their stories and highlight the cultural importance behind their works, thus engaging and building interest among consumers.

Sustainability and Eco-friendliness: There exists a consumer transition to sustainable products and green products, which is driving up demand for handicrafts from natural and recycled materials.

Government Initiatives: The supportive initiatives and policies by government advocating local craftsmanship through grants, training, exhibitions are driving the market growth.

Market Segmentation:

By Product Type:

Woodware: Handcrafted items made from various types of wood, including furniture, utensils, and decorative pieces.

Artmetal Ware: Metal-based crafts such as sculptures, utensils, and ornamental items.

Handprinted Textiles and Scarves: Fabrics and scarves featuring traditional handprinted designs.

Embroidered and Crocheted Goods: Textiles adorned with embroidery or crochet work, including clothing and home décor items.

Zari and Zari Goods: Products embellished with intricate gold or silver thread work, commonly found in traditional garments.

Imitation Jewelry: Costume jewelry designed to mimic precious metals and gemstones.

Sculptures: Three-dimensional art pieces crafted from materials like stone, metal, or wood.

Pottery and Glass Wares: Handmade ceramic and glass items, including vases, dishes, and decorative pieces.

Attars and Agarbattis: Traditional perfumes and incense sticks used for fragrance and religious purposes.

Others: Miscellaneous handcrafted items that do not fall into the above categories.

By Distribution Channel:

Mass Retailers: Large-scale retail chains offering a wide range of products, including handicrafts.

Departmental Stores: Multi-category retail stores that include sections for handcrafted goods.

Independent Retailers: Small, often local shops specializing in unique or region-specific handicrafts.

Specialty Stores: Retailers focusing on specific categories of handicrafts, such as jewelry or textiles.

Online Stores: E-commerce platforms and websites selling handicrafts directly to consumers.

Others: Alternative distribution channels, including pop-up shops and artisan markets.

By End-Use:

Residential: Handcrafted items used in homes for decoration, utility, or personal adornment.

Commercial: Handicrafts utilized in businesses, offices, hotels, and other commercial establishments for décor or functional purposes.

Breakup by Region:

North America (United States, Canada)

Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, Others)

Europe (Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, Others)

Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Others)

Middle East and Africa

Regional Insights:

North America currently holds the largest share in the global handicrafts market, driven by a rising demand for unique, handcrafted products and a strong e-commerce presence. Consumers in the region are increasingly favoring sustainable and eco-friendly items, boosting sales of handmade goods. Additionally, cultural appreciation and government initiatives supporting artisans contribute to the market's expansion.

Recent Developments & News:

The handicrafts market is witnessing significant developments, with digital transformation and sustainability leading the way. E-commerce platforms have enhanced market accessibility for artisans, enabling direct-to-consumer sales. Additionally, the growing trend of eco-friendly handicrafts is reshaping consumer preferences, with brands focusing on sustainable materials and ethical production. Government initiatives promoting traditional handicrafts and cultural heritage are further driving market growth.

Key Players:

Asian Handicraft

Fakih Group of Companies

Shandong Laizhou Arts and Crafts Imp & Exp Co. Ltd.

Ten Thousand Villages

Oriental Handicrafts Pte. Ltd.

NGOC Dong Ha Nam

Minhou Minxing Weaving Co. Ltd.

Native Crafts and Arts Industries

If you require any specific information that is not covered currently within the scope of the report, we will provide the same as a part of the customization. 

Ask Analyst for Customization: https://www.imarcgroup.com/request?type=report&id=921&flag=C

About Us:

IMARC Group is a global management consulting firm that helps the world’s most ambitious changemakers to create a lasting impact. The company provides a comprehensive suite of market entry and expansion services. IMARC offerings include thorough market assessment, feasibility studies, company incorporation assistance, factory setup support, regulatory approvals and licensing navigation, branding, marketing and sales strategies, competitive landscape and benchmarking analyses, pricing and cost research, and procurement research.

[market-insider]

Pottery Ceramics Market: A Strategic Analysis of the Competitive Edge within the Industry

The global pottery ceramics market size is expected to reach USD 15.00 billion by 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 3.8% from 2022 to 2030. Increasing investment in the construction of luxury housing units is expected to propel the consumption of pottery ceramic products over the forecast period.

Art ware products such as sculptures, vases, and pots are widely used by real estate developers to improve the aesthetics of the property. Thus, the development of new luxury residential units is expected to augment the demand for the product in the said forecast period. For instance, in July 2022, Jubail Island Investment Company (JIIC) announced the construction of 135 acres of the Ain Al Maha village residential project in UAE. The 240-villa waterfront community is anticipated to be completed by 2025.

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict has emerged as a challenge for the growth of the pottery ceramics industry as it has severely impacted the functioning of various industries globally. The conflict has affected trade and manufacturing, which has led to high volatility in commodity prices, thereby impacting the prices, demand, and supply of raw materials such as clay and gas.

For instance, in Bangladesh, clay from Ukraine was at least 10% lower than the clay supplied by other countries in terms of cost. However, considering the restraints during the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Bangladesh is importing clay from Malaysia and various European countries at high costs, which has augmented the production cost in the country.

Based on region, Middle East & Africa is anticipated to register the fastest CAGR of 4.9% in terms of revenue during the forecast period. The region is heavily investing in the construction of new luxury resorts and hotels, which is expected to augment the consumption of pottery ceramics products. For instance, in December 2021, Marriott International, Inc. announced that they are going to open two luxury hotels in Saudi Arabia in 2022.

Market participants continue to develop their products to stay ahead of their competition. For instance, in January 2022, Wienerberger, a provider of ceramic roof tiles, partnered with Exasun, a producer of innovative in-roof solar solutions, to manufacture high-performance X-Roof solar panels and X-Tiles to help in accelerating the energy transition process taking place in Europe and to expand their customer base in the region.

For More Details or Sample Copy please visit link @: Pottery Ceramics Market Report

Pottery Ceramics Market Report Highlights

Rising gas prices around the world are negatively impacting pottery ceramics manufacturers. For instance, energy costs in Europe rose by GBP 400,000 (~USD 459,000) from February 2021 to February 2022

Based on product, the tableware segment held the largest revenue share of more than 73% in 2021. The growth of the segment can be attributed to the growing use of ceramic crockery in households and restaurants because of its aesthetic appeal

Based on region, in 2021, Asia Pacific was the leading regional segment with a revenue share of over 40%. The growth of the region is anticipated to be driven by the increasing investments in the development and renovations of hotels

The increasing penetration of the e-commerce industry is expected to positively impact market growth as e-commerce platforms help manufacturers sell their products anywhere across the world at the best price

Gain deeper insights on the market and receive your free copy with TOC now @: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/pottery-ceramics-market-report/request/rs43

Grand View Research has segmented the global pottery ceramics market based on product and region:

[aroundtheworldin80playspod]

Plaster Act (Stop 3: Stoke-on-Trent)

Episode 3: Stoke-on-Trent – Like an Emma over Bridgewater, Lizzie and Alfie take Dolly to Stoke’s famous pottery house to paint some gifts for the family. Plus, Lizzie enthralls Alfie with an exploration of Orchestras on tour.

***

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Lizzie on Socials: https://twitter.com/LizzieBea3 -- https://www.instagram.com/lizziebea101/ Alfie on Socials: https://twitter.com/ParkerAlfie -- https://www.instagram.com/parkeralfie/

Also, support '80Plays' and buy our theme song 'Blue Sky' and help support our show! - https://www.thetonastontales.com/bookstore/p/blue-sky-by-walken-mp3-around-the-world-in-80-plays-podcast-theme-song Or buy the full album 'Current Melbourne Temperature' by Walken from Bandcamp - https://walkentheband.bandcamp.com/album/current-melbourne-temperature

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*** EXCLUSIVELY on The BLOOP Network!

Production Credits

Hosts: Lizzie Bea and Alfie Parker Producers: Aaron Ware (EP) and Spencer Sher (AP) Co-Producers: Alfie Parker and Lizzie Bea Editor: Aaron Ware Location Assistant: Seher Ackrim Theatre Photography Courtesy of Kristian Lavercombe Podcast Support Pets: Dolly the Dog; Belle the Dog Press/Advertising Enquiries: 80playspodcast@gmail.com Theme Song ‘Blue Sky’ by Walken (written by Baines, Bowie, Smith, Soussan, Tsipas) Buy the ‘Blue Sky’ MP3 single and help support ‘Around the World in 80 Plays’ at https://www.thetonastontales.com/bookstore/p/blue-sky-by-walken-mp3-around-the-world-in-80-plays-podcast-theme-song Additional Music and 'Dolly's Theme' Composed by Jonathan Wagner Music Video for Blue Sky - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXeCN0yRfcU Powered by Transistor.FM

[a-christmas-window-shop]

@rom-e-o These adorable salt and pepper shakers.💕🦋

I can so see these as the trays Gal and Jake use in their pub for the pub food. No breaking plates if you get too drunk.😅

@rom-e-o I think we're going to start the:

~Etsy Finds of the Day~

[stardust-swan]

Cottagecore Ideas for Valentine's Day 💐💌🍄

Gifts

💐 Pick a bouquet of wildflowers for your lover. You can pick flowers that have meanings according to the language of flowers which remind you of them

💐 Write a letter or poem telling them what you like about them. You could include pressed flowers or lipstick kisses

💐 Buy them a book of fairytales or poetry. Or Ghibli art books, or a box set of Moomins books.

💐 Knit or crochet them a stuffed version of their favourite animal

💐 Bake them their favourite treats. If you have the time and resources you could make a whole hamper with homemade cake, pie, cookies, jam, cheese, or other foodstuffs

💐 Make them homemade jewellery, candles, or soaps

💐 Get them a houseplant that you can watch grow as your relationship grows

💐 Quilt a cozy blanket that you can snuggle up under together

💐 Give them a delicate tea set with a floral pattern you can enjoy tea with together. Bonus points if you make your own tea blend to go with the gift.

💐 A jar of honey from the farmer's market, or your cottage's backyard

💐 A hand-carved jewellery box for storing their treasures

💐 Seedling starter kit that you can use to plant a garden together

💐 A basket of fresh produce from your garden or a farmer's market

💐 Paint them something special, or make pressed flower art for them

💐 Engrave a wooden spoon or spatula with a pretty pattern

Dates

💐 Go berry picking together and make jam afterwards

💐 Have a picnic with fresh pastries, fruit, and homemade lemonade

💐 Go to a forest or nature park, bring a plant identification guide, and try to spot as many plants as you can. Maybe you could try sketching them too

💐 Lie on a soft blanket and watch the clouds go by

💐 Invite them over for fresh bread, tea, and homemade soup over cottagecore movies or TV shows (such as any Ghibli movie, The Moomins, classic Disney princess movies, and Anne with an E)

💐 Visit a petting zoo

💐 Bake something sweet together

💐 Take a trip to the farmers market and admire the wares. Cook a nice meal with the food you buy there afterwards

💐 Take a pottery class together and make something special for each other

💐 Spend an afternoon thrifting for vintage clothes

💐 Visit a botanical garden and admire the lush greenery and vivid flowers while taking in the fragrance

💐 Have a garden party in your backyard with lots of tea and desserts

💐 Rent a tandem bike and take a ride through the countryside

💐 Spend the day crafting together

💐 Attend a fair and participate in apple picking and hayrides, and try to win your lover a prize

💐 Take a sunset boatride with a bottle of wine or homemade cider

💐 Visit a vineyard and try local wines

💐 Visit a local farm and learn about the crops and animals

💐 Take a cooking class and cook seasonal dishes

[aic-african]

Bottle, Zande, 1901, Art Institute of Chicago: Arts of Africa

The deeply inscribed, swirling pattern that encircles the body of the bottle above is found on Barambo and Mangbetu potter from the early twentieth century, although it likely originated with the Barambo. The maker skillfully gauged the thickness of the bottle’s walls, making them substantial enough to accommodate the depth of carving without rendering the vessel overly heavy. A slightly metallic sheen and several fire clouds further enhance its appearance.The centralized chiefdoms of the Mangbetu and Zande arose in the eighteenth century, and their influence cast a wide net. Among the Mangbetu and the closely related Barambo, pottery is typically practiced by women, while among the Zande it is men who control its production. Despite this, beginning in the late nineteenth century growing similarities between Mangbetu, Zande, and Barambo pottery reflect the spread of styles, potters, and their wares during a period of intensifying cultural contact. Ornate bottles for storing beer, oil, water, and wine were made as luxury items for rulers and the wealthy elite, and, increasingly in the early twentieth century, for European travelers. —Entry, For Hearth and Altar, African Ceramics from the Keith Achepohl Collection (2005), pp. 163-165. Edward E. Ayer Endowment in memory of Charles L. Hutchinson Size: 30.5 × 20.3 cm (12 × 8 in.) Medium: Terracotta

https://www.artic.edu/artworks/180971/

[friendswithclay]

“Santa Apolonia potters with their urban ware.”

From: “The Traditional Pottery of Guatemala” by Ruben E. Reina, 1978.

[aic-american]

Standing Poodle, United States Pottery Company, 1847, Art Institute of Chicago: American Art

Beginning in the mid-18th century, English manufacturers introduced yellow-bodied pottery with mottled brown glazing, commonly known as Rockingham ware, to the United States market. By the 1840s, factories in America, aided by English immigrant craftsmen, were producing the pottery to great success. Two of the most notable American makers of Rockingham ware were located in Bennington, Vermont, where potteries had existed since at least 1785, but there were also manufacturers in New Jersey, Ohio, Maryland, and elsewhere. Responding to the utilitarian needs of America’s middle class, these potteries produced a large range of objects, from spittoons to inkwells, snuffboxes to pitchers, and candlesticks to doorknobs. Among the few purely decorative items with mottled glazes are standing poodles. Conceived as facing pairs, they were intended to adorn a fireplace mantel. These figures were embellished with “coleslaw,” or shredded clay, applied to the front quarters, head, and tail. This poodle carries a basket of fruit glazed in white and pale colors, distinguishing it from the rest of the figure, which is covered with the typical mottled brown glaze. Amelia Blanxius Collection, gift of Emma B. Hodge and Jene E. Bell Size: 21.6 × 23.2 × 11.4 cm (8 1/2 × 9 1/8 × 4 1/2 in.) Medium: Earthenware

https://www.artic.edu/artworks/67399/

[bobbyimarc]

Global Handicrafts Market Size, Trends, Growth, and Forecast 2025–2033

Handicrafts Market Overview:

The global handicrafts market has experienced remarkable growth, reaching a size of USD 906.8 billion in 2024. This surge is attributed to the rising consumer demand for unique, handmade products, the proliferation of e-commerce platforms, and a heightened emphasis on sustainability. Supportive government initiatives and an increasing number of cultural events have further propelled the market. Looking ahead, IMARC Group projects the market to reach USD 1,942.4 billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 8.83% during 2025–2033.

Study Assumption Years:

Base Year: 2024

Historical Years: 2019–2024

Forecast Years: 2025–2033

Handicrafts Market Key Takeaways:

Market Size and Growth: The global handicrafts market reached USD 906.8 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.83%, reaching USD 1,942.4 billion by 2033.

Product Segmentation: The market encompasses various products, including woodware, artmetal ware, handprinted textiles and scarves, embroidered and crocheted goods, zari and zari goods, imitation jewelry, sculptures, pottery and glass wares, attars and agarbattis, among others.

Distribution Channels: Handicrafts are distributed through mass retailers, departmental stores, independent retailers, specialty stores, online stores, and other channels.

End-Use Segments: The primary end-users of handicrafts are residential and commercial sectors.

Regional Performance: The Asia-Pacific region dominates the market, driven by rich cultural heritage and a strong base of artisans.

Request for a sample copy of this report: https://www.imarcgroup.com/handicrafts-market/requestsample

Market Growth Factors:

The e-commerce growth: With the proliferation of e-commerce platforms, artisans are being afforded direct access to buyers across the globe. This shift has allowed craftsmen to market their products themselves without intermediaries, adding to their profit margins and their market reach. Consumers are thus acquiring an array of handcrafted items, fuelling demand, and thus growing the market.

The green and sustainable: Present-day conscious global consumers are now placing a premium on sustainability and are keen on obtaining eco-friendly goods, thereby making handicrafts a preferred product. Hand-made Items often use natural materials and work on local traditional methods, thus limiting their harsh environmental impact. They share some environmental values with their consumers, and that is what values buyer pays for and thus drives the market.

Government policy and promotion of culture: All around the globe, governments are establishing policies aimed at protecting cultural heritage and supporting local artisans. These include grants, training, and exhibitions to promote handicrafts: the processes increase visibility and attractiveness. They empower artisans financially and at the same time, keep their cultural heritage alive, thereby ensuring continued growth in the market.

Market Segmentation:

By Product Type:

Woodware: Items crafted from wood, including furniture and decorative pieces.

Artmetal Ware: Metal-based artworks and utensils.

Handprinted Textiles and Scarves: Fabrics featuring traditional prints and designs.

Embroidered and Crocheted Goods: Textiles adorned with embroidery or crochet work.

Zari and Zari Goods: Products embellished with intricate gold or silver threadwork.

Imitation Jewelry: Costume jewelry replicating precious designs.

Sculptures: Three-dimensional art pieces made from various materials.

Pottery and Glass Wares: Ceramic and glass items, including vases and utensils.

Attars and Agarbattis: Traditional perfumes and incense sticks.

Others: Miscellaneous handcrafted products.

By Distribution Channel:

Mass Retailers: Large-scale retail chains offering a wide range of products.

Departmental Stores: Multi-department retail establishments.

Independent Retailers: Privately owned, standalone retail outlets.

Specialty Stores: Shops focusing on specific product categories.

Online Stores: E-commerce platforms facilitating online purchases.

Others: Alternative distribution channels.

By End-Use:

Residential: Handicrafts used in homes for decoration and utility.

Commercial: Handicrafts utilized in commercial spaces such as offices and hotels.

Breakup by Region:

North America (United States, Canada)

Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, Others)

Europe (Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, Others)

Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Others)

Middle East and Africa

Regional Insights:

The Asia-Pacific region leads the global handicrafts market, attributed to its rich cultural heritage and a vast community of skilled artisans. Countries like India and China have longstanding traditions of craftsmanship, producing a wide array of handmade products that appeal to both domestic and international markets. Government support and a growing appreciation for traditional arts have further bolstered the region’s dominance.

Recent Developments & News:

The handicrafts market has witnessed significant trends, including the integration of technology in design and production processes, enhancing efficiency while maintaining artisanal quality. Collaborations between artisans and contemporary designers have led to innovative product offerings, appealing to modern consumers. Additionally, the rise of sustainable and ethically sourced materials has become a focal point, aligning with global environmental consciousness.

Key Players:

Asian Handicraft

Fakih Group of Companies

Shandong Laizhou Arts and Crafts Imp & Exp Co. Ltd.

Ten Thousand Villages

Oriental Handicrafts Pte. Ltd.

NGOC Dong Ha Nam

Minhou Minxing Weaving Co. Ltd.

Native Crafts and Arts Industries

If you require any specific information that is not covered currently within the scope of the report, we will provide the same as a part of the customization.

Ask Analyst for Customization: https://www.imarcgroup.com/request?type=report&id=921&flag=C

About Us:

IMARC Group is a global management consulting firm that helps the world’s most ambitious changemakers to create a lasting impact. The company provide a comprehensive suite of market entry and expansion services. IMARC offerings include thorough market assessment, feasibility studies, company incorporation assistance, factory setup support, regulatory approvals and licensing navigation, branding, marketing and sales strategies, competitive landscape and benchmarking analyses, pricing and cost research, and procurement research.

[loyally-unfaithful]

—; even if i am fooling myself, my feelings are true . (4)

word count: 5.3k

pairing: origami cyclone | ivan karelin / gn!reader

genre: hurt/comfort

summary: even if he was lying to you by pretending to be your lover, he told himself it was worth it. it made you happy. it helped you. he’s helping you. this ruse is only done in good faith. 

if it were to make you smile, if it were to help you brighten up, then all his lies and deceptions could be forgiven, he rationalised.

a/n:  this chapter do be monologue city,,,

i have arthritis i would like a refund for my bones.

the hero knows he promised to see you again the next day, but it’s been a few days now since he has last seen you. you must be back at home by now. alone. were you okay? he can’t help but feel worried about you due to your limited mobility. guilt stings even more painfully now that he had calmed down. he has virtually subjected you to a prolonged radio silence after leaving abruptly.

and he still needed to tell you the truth...

the hero had put off meeting you again, because it meant seeing you again. it meant he had to tell you the truth. it meant he’d no longer be able to meet you.

he chastised himself. what was expecting? really, what did he expect to happen? he berated himself, guilt clawing at him. what was he doing, impersonating your lover? he felt ill. he should’ve stopped meeting you after that campaign ended. but for reasons that escaped him, he continued. was it selfishness? was it greed? what pushed him to continue? whatever had happened, it wasn’t supposed to. he was just supposed to check in on you, make sure you’re getting on well, and move on in his life. he was supposed to stay neutral, indifferent, objective. you were just any other stranger that he would help throughout his career as a hero. but you had been so lovely and so unassuming that he must’ve…? without realising it, he had gotten himself too involved and was now in too deep, allowing his shameful self to form feelings for your kind and beautiful self. trying to distance himself from you to no avail, he found himself uselessly fighting feelings that have sprouted without his permission. he was fighting a losing battle, and a war that wasn’t tilting into his favour. he had hoped that these stubborn feelings would disappear, hopefully sooner rather than later, but it seemed that they refused to leave him alone.

the blond let out a harsh sigh. he’s noticed he has been doing that a lot, much more that usual. when it went well it went wonderfully, sublime; when it went badly it went awfully, dreadful.

he can’t keep going like this.

it’s not fair for you.

it’s not fair for him.

he can’t lead you on, and he can’t continue to delude himself.

each step he took to your residence were heavier than the last. listlessly, he dragged his feet. it had rained last night, making this walk even more unpleasant and gloomy. concluding what was both the slowest and fastest walk he had ever had the displeasure of taking, he lifted his gaze off of the pavement to take in your house. it was superficially identical to the other houses in the neighbourhood, but then again, houses in this district of the bronze stage often looked the same. it was a modest one-storey house, which felt anything but modest. it looked oppressive, intimidating. it terrified him. what was in store for him within those walls terrifying him further.

knowing that simply anticipating would do him no good, ivan shook his head, trying to shake his nervousness away, to no avail. he tried willing his legs to move, to get closer to your house, with no success. fixed in place, immobilised by dread. he stood idle, head turned down, in front of your home for what felt like an eternity, surprised that you hadn’t noticed the stranger in front of your property first.

he sighed.

the pathetic puddle by his feet reflected an even more pathetic him.

he stared silently at kotetsu’s reflection under him: « you’ve gotta tell them. they deserve to know. ». with a disappointed sigh, he gazed back at the small pool who gazed back with his disappointing face. he, “kotetsu”, had told himself to tell you the truth. but did he have the courage to?

no longer able to bear taylor’s silent judgement, ivan lifted his head and slowly climbed up the front steps to your front door.

the puddle, murky as it always was, remained as unbothered as it had always been.

his finger hovered over the doorbell. did he have the courage to? he bit his lips hard enough to draw blood. could he meet your eyes? momentarily retracting his hand, he resisted submitting to his anxiety and willed himself to push the bell.

ivan could hear the ringing echoing inside your walls.

and then silence.

one beat.

two beat.

then another.

were you not home?

you always had very quiet steps, he told himself. everything is ok.

his knee jerk reaction to the prolonged silence was to take it as a sign that today wasn’t the day. a message from a power above telling him that he can postpone it for another day… whenever that other day was. his usual reaction would be to take this as an opportunity to throw in the towel and go home. but for you (and for himself), he’ll fight his impulse to cower away.

but still… this silence was slightly concerning.

had something happened to you?

the hero’s mind jumped through different conclusions to rationalise your lack of response.

maybe you went out…

maybe you weren’t awake…

what if you had hurt yourself and couldn’t get bac—

he reached out to ring the doorbell yet again, but stopped halfway as the door creaked open.

« how can i help y— taylor? » you had sounded as surprised to see him as he was to you.

oh. you were ok. he breathed out in relief. you were ok.

« please, come in, you offered, moving out of the way. sorry to make you wait, i wasn’t… i wasn’t expecting to see you… sorry about the mess… you mumbled. »

the hero gulped, fighting the fear that rose up within him from hearing the door click closed behind him. he can’t run away. no going back now: he had to tell you the truth. taking his mind off of his nerves, he decided to look around and observe the interior of your house. you said “mess” but the house is more or less in order, unless you were referring to the few stacks of books that littered your house. still... he struggled to call it a mess, as the odd misplaced books here and there didn’t even feel out place within your humble abode: it blended with the other decor into the stylish deep green walls and light brown tiles. the only thing he could qualify as being messy would be the light covering of dust that was slowly gathering on some of the furniture’s surface, along with the few papers and knickknacks strewn about, but they were out of the way enough that nothing ever seemed cluttered.

to his delight, the curios have all been of japanese origins, from the hand fans (« an ōgi! » he noted excitedly.) to the rough stacks of woodblock prints (« where did they get so many ukiyo-e prints? » he asked himself.). in fact, closer inspection would suggest that quite a few of the furnishings decorating your house were japanese in nature: the tapestry hung on your wall (he was sure those were called a tenugui.), the forgotten matcha tea set on the kitchen counter (« there was even a chasen?! »), and the japanese pottery and porcelain safely tucked into a glass cupboard (he wonders if he could get the opportunity to use the hagi ware chawan amongst the set.). he had to stop himself from literally beaming in excitement and dashing to ogle the wares. who would’ve known you’d have such a collection in your house? he needed to calm down, lest he attracted your suspicion, and swallowed his bubbling elation.

he followed your lead to wherever you were walking back to, inquisitively taking in his surroundings, distracting his mind from his previous anxieties.

« i, uh… no one’s been home since i went to the hospital. you walked back towards your open living room. and i’ve kinda been putting off cleaning. you laughed. – don’t worry about it… he assured you, still taking in this unknown territory. »

briefly, he let his attention back to you and to where you walked: to your open living room, which was connected to your kitchen. further to the side, he could see the stairs that led to your suspended bedroom. it seemed that this house had more or less the same make and architecture as tiger’s apartment, though with drastically different decor, he noted. though with more than less difficulty, you managed to get around your house just fine. despite your pronounced limp you continued at a regular, albeit slowed, pace. your gait was sometimes slowed by the fact that you sometimes had to hang on some of the fittings to maintain your balance and ivan had to fight the urge to rush over and help you walk.

you probably wouldn’t like for him to encroach on your newfound autonomy, he figured.

after finally reaching the living room, you had carefully sat yourself down on the floor in front of the coffee table. noticing the crafting papers and shavings surrounding where you sat, he thoughtlessly asked: « were you making something? no wonder you took a bit to respond. i’m sorry for interrupting you... – mhm, i’m just making menko cards. you elaborated as you carefully positioned your impaired leg. and it’s alright, you couldn’t have known. – menko cards? his interest was piqued. – yeah, just thought it would be fun, you shrugged. wanna help? – sure! he answered delightedly, failing to hide the eagerness in his voice. i mean, why not… you just laughed at his childlike enthusiasm. – i’d really appreciate it you could help me cut out the picture, you asked. »

he eased himself down next to you, trying his hardest not to appear bothered by your proximity. everything is ok. he’ll help you in this last activity. because it had interested him. because he wanted to treasure the last moments he got to spend with you. the very last. he doesn’t like the finality of that, but the truth had to be said. guilt stung like an open wound whenever he remembered that he was lying to you. he wouldn’t be mad if you condemned him for “exploiting” you. if he were to tell you the truth there was no way you’d forgive him, much less continue to seek out his affection. your resentment would be well deserved, even if the thought of being disliked by you hurt him.

his despair grew as he thought of the aftermath. it would leave him heartbroken, but what about you? you would’ve been deceived, not once but twice: by both he and your former lover. he really didn’t think this decision through, did he? this was a selfish and cruel scheme to begin with. just a misguided attempt to assist someone who didn’t even asked for his assistance. he doesn’t want to doubt your resilience, but surely, if he came clean you’d be deeply saddened and devastated again… he didn’t want to be the reason you felt lost again and returned to being miserable. he didn’t want to be the cause of your melancholy, the cause of a relapse. but that was exactly what he was going to cause you, wasn’t it? he was the cause of your grief and strife.

if this ended with him broken-hearted, he’d end up shattering whatever had remained of yours and leave you inconsolable.

this was a mistake. he’d caused you more pain than solace. this was a mistake. lies and sweet words aren’t what would have saved you. they weren’t what you needed. this was a mistake.

what would he even say? a “sorry” wouldn’t suffice. not even the sincerest apology would fix this. those words would only hurt you more.

he made his bed, now he had to lay in it. if only he never roped you into this.

spirit down again, he sighed and looked upon the table to tackle his newly appointed objective. a sharp contrast from the rest of your orderly home, the table was cluttered with random bits of paper and cardboard (both circular and rectangular, of various sizes), different crafting materials like scissors and box cutters, and hero related paraphernalia.

« people don’t usually make menko cards… he muttered. why not just buy the hero cards (‘my own are still collecting dust aren’t they…’)? he quizzed, flipping around a finished card of himself. despite his doubting tone, he carefully placed the work back down and got to cutting the few images off of few magazine pages. – that would be too easy. you shrugged. besides, i was planning to gift them to my niece. the bugger has bought everything i could find, and well… afford, in the shops. you admitted. – that makes sense… he replied, focusing on the task at hand. – the rascal loves all of this hero stuff but she absolutely loves sky high, you chuckled. it’s all she talks about. it’s like she lives and breathes the guy, said she wanted to be a hero and help people like he did. » you pretended to be annoyed, but he could hear the fondness in your voice. even though he’s supposed to start distancing himself from you, to start preparing himself for the upcoming heartbreak, he can’t help but continue to be endeared by you.

this was all so… incredibly mundane. everything just felt so incredibly ordinary. your interactions, the things you did together. it’s like it’s always been this way. the things you spoke about, and even the silence that you would share. there was always a certain comfort to be had together. it’s like this was normal, and he was the one you were always with. it’s like this was a routine. who knows, maybe in a different world, one where you two had met through different circumstances, maybe the two of you would’ve gotten together, he mused. but he had already ruined any chance of that he concluded. maybe had your lives gone a different way… maybe in another lifetime.

maybe this life wasn’t the one he was supposed to meet you in.

you sighed, straightening your back, before curling over your work once more: « sky high’s power is wind manipulation right? you pursed your lips. if i had that kind of power, i’d just spend most of my day flying to places. can you imagine? never having to put up with traffic? you rambled thoughtlessly. »

unbeknownst to you, ivan’s mind wandered back to a few years ago when he learnt that without the involvement of his custom made jetpacks sky high’s power could only allow him to float, and fought to stifle the laugh that crept up his throat. oblivious, you asked, sounding half-curious half-bored as you continued to abuse the material under your hands: « hey love, if you could have any next power in the world, what would you pick? »

ivan tilted his head towards you, and let his hand drop back down on the carpeted floor. change his ability for a different one? any kind at all? he took the time to ponder it, seriously considering the question. of course, he admired kotetsu’s and barnaby’s hundred power, but could he really utilise that correctly, what with the constraints? what about edward’s power? he had an actual chance to be a hero with his ability… or even lunatic and his fearsome control over his devastating blue flames. if he could use that for good? to help people? there were too many different abilities, each one more capable than the one he actually possessed.

« hmm… i guess… anything that’s useful; something that can be used to help others. he answered truthfully. i’m sorry, that must’ve been really vague. he laughed nervously. you shook your head with a smile. – that’s very noble of you, you praised as you continued working. truthfully, i envy your integrity. you confessed. – mm? why is that? what next power would you have chosen? he inquired. – oh, like if i had a second next power? you replied absentmindedly, focused on a particularly stubborn piece of cardboard which refused to cut. »

wait. did he hear that right?

« are… are you a next? » he asked, sounding something like perturbed.

« hmm? »

« is there something you’r… »

there wasn’t any need to elaborate: your face had said it all. like a criminal caught red-handed, your expression was the perfect picture of shock. he would even think you were scandalised. you pressed your lips into a thin line, eyebrows knitted in dismay.

« must’ve be a freudian slip… » you tried to laugh, neither of you amused. « it’s really nothing noteworthy or important— » you started on a lie, but grimaced slightly.

catching unto your tic, he pleaded, voice serious: « tell me the truth… please… »

you shifted in you seat uncomfortably, eyes dashing across your room looking at everything except his eyes. you were deeply aware of the eyes laser-focused on you, locked onto you to the point where you swore it could bore through you. you sighed and resigned yourself to telling him the truth. the entire truth, and nothing but the truth. it’s not like you could lie to his face: « before i tell you, do you promise not to leave before i finished explaining everything? you opened your mouth and closed them again. you’re free to hate me all you want, but please don’t… you turned away and bit your lips. »

he didn’t know what to anticipate. was your ability that alarming? he nodded, preparing himself for… whatever you were going to reveal to him.

« it’s honestly nothing incredible… you started. i couldn’t be a hero with it… i swear. it’s... you paused, as you tried to find the right words to divulge your ability. the right words to explain it clearly without making it into a fuss.

lie detection, you said, plainly, without much relish or fanfare. um... my ability only allows me to see through lies, or anything meant to deceive: lies, half-truths, manipulations, omission of detail… you hesitated. illusions.

i guess, neither of you ever noticed… they, um, taylor, didn’t know either… »

it’s shocking how easily this fabricated world crumbled.

you knew? what do you mean?? ivan had sat facing you, frozen in place. by fear, confusion, apprehension. he felt embarrassed, ashamed. were you just playing along to spare his feelings? he really should’ve told you earlier. look at where his inaction led him.

he should’ve been the one who came clean, instead of forcing you to tell the truth on his behalf.

« how long…? half wanting and not wanting to know the truth. he had a guess. if what you had said was true then... how long have you known? »

still not facing him, you cast your gaze downwards, clasping your hands together: « since the first time… when i saw you, i knew you weren’t the real taylor and just assumed it was you, origami. what with your involvement during the campaign and all... i’m guessing i’ve assumed correctly?

the hero sat motionless, but made no attempt to disprove your assumption. if what you had said about your ability was true, then there would be no point to lying.

at first i really… didn’t understand why you kept visiting me, as my former partner no less. i still don’t, for that matter… though i’m willing to give you the benefit of the doubt and assume that you have good intentions. i knew it was you, so i was a bit standoffish and suspicious when we first met… i thought you wanted to take advantage of me while i was helpless to stroke your own ego, or conduct some sort of ploy to boost your own popularity. i’m... really sorry for assuming something like that about you… i’m not sure where i got that idea as you never seemed to be that kind of person... you had been so sincere when i asked why you kept visiting me and kept pretending… well not pretending, you seemed to have genuinely cared about me, that i guess i started to drop my guard and trusted you.

your eyes were tinged with a sadness and confusion that he wished to get rid of, but it was no longer his place. it never was his place. you shook your head.

i’m really sorry. i really truly am for not letting you know sooner instead of letting it go this far… at first i… i played along because i didn’t want you to feel uncomfortable or feel humiliated by revealing that i could see through your disguise, and i wanted to wait for you to come clean first. but i guess… somewhere along the lines you’ve become a part of my routine and i’ve become quite fond of spending my time with you. of you. you quickly added. i know that i was going through a vulnerable moment of my life, which may have made me too trusting, but i really mean it: i’m really happy that i met you that day. i know you were just playing your role and that nothing ever meant anything… and i’m aware that you could’ve just… up and left whenever you got tired of dealing with my crap. even though it’s all fake, i’ve really enjoyed the time we got to spent together and i’m really happy i got to be with you. i’m really happy for being able to get to know you as a person, origami. »

you tried to smile to convey your gratefulness, but it came out wrong. it wavered and was visibly bittersweet. as you said that, your voice held such remorsefulness that baffled him. it was his fault in the first place, trapping the both of you in a punishment of his own creation. he should be the one apologising to you, he should be the one begging you for forgiveness as he explained himself. he should be the one who told you the truth. you had every reason to feel disgusted by him and hate him, and yet, here you were putting yourself down for his sake.

you were slightly surprised when you heard him respond, his voice no longer bearing that confident tone and smooth accent that you had recognised to be taylor’s. instead it was the boyish voice you had come to know was origami cyclone’s. but this time, it was devoid of any energy and lacked the boisterous intonation that often accompanied his words: « no, i- i’m the one who should apologise: i should’ve been the one to tell you the truth… if anyone should feel angry or betrayed, it should be you… i was the one who decided to set this all up after all…

after facing you, it was his turn to look away, avoiding your gaze.

i didn’t mean let it go this far … lying to you to this extent and for this long… but of course, i allowed it to get out of hand… i’m sorry, i should’ve told you sooner, if i ever made you uncomfortable at any point during this whole mess i’m really sorry. i... it was stupid. you never reached out for help and i’m sure you would’ve gotten through this just fine by yourself. my intent was never to manipulate you for my own gain or to use you… i had wanted to help you, naively thinking that i could fix you… it was selfish of me to just force my way into your life and help you, even though you never asked for mine. it was foolish to think i could just… pull the wool over your eyes like that, and it was unfair to you.

the blond considered stopping there, allowing a tangible silence, even more oppressive than the tension, to invade the room. should he tell you? should he…? he tried his best to summon a renewed determination. it was high time that he was honest to you, he told himself. honest to you. honest to himself, as well.

i suppose it’s pointless to lie to you, so i’ll tell you the truth: i... i— the circumstances in which we met were less than ideal, and i wished that we could’ve gotten to know each other differently, but… during the course of… whatever it is we had, i had stupidly hoped that the closeness i felt between us wasn’t imagined, and that you felt the same affection for me as i did for you.

despite his fear, he dared himself to turn back to where you had sat, bracing himself for what your eyes held. will it be repulsion? hostility? regret? vilification? he was scared, but even so he faced them.

my appearance may have not been mine, but my actions were. you’re free to doubt the validity of my words, but… even though i was pretending to be someone else i- my feelings are true. »

finding himself surprised for the umpteenth time that day, you fully turned to face him. you didn’t seem to be reacting badly, but you weren’t reacting much at all. you simply sat there, stunned at his display of honesty. were you combing through his words to detect any possible lies? he figured he deserved that level of distrust, after doing nothing but lie to you. he knows he shouldn’t feel so relieved when he wasn’t even in the clear yet, but at least you weren’t reacting badly and he was infinitely grateful for your seemingly infinite graciousness.

finally, you seemed to have recovered your voice: « i believe you. »

three words. three simple words that managed to lift all the weight off of his shoulders. you believed him. he didn’t deserve your forgiveness, and yet you gave it to him freely.

« could i see… no, nevermind. you had retracted your hesitant request. i’ve already made you go through too much for my sake. i’m grateful for being able to see you, regardless of who you look like. »

he shook his head, relenting: « you deserve to know the truth. it’s the least i could do after everything i made you endure… » with a blue flash, “taylor” disappeared. in their place was a young man with a mop of unruly blond hair. he fidgeted nervously with his hands under the baggy purple varsity jacket he wore, which coupled with his hunched posture, made him look smaller than he probably was. his striking and alluring purple eyes seemed to be permanently locked into an expression of worry and refused to meet your eyes. « i’m sorry… i’m probably way off from what you expected... » he muttered, dejectedly.

not expecting any sort of positive reaction for his underwhelming appearance, he turned his amethyst eyes elsewhere. he waited for your reaction, anticipating the worst. always anticipating the worst.

in one swift motion, you reached out to embrace him tightly. his body tensed up, having been caught off guard by the sudden affectionate gesture. his hands dropped from their hovering around your form as his wide eyes ran wildly across the room before they returned to settle on you. confusion laced his voice as he softly called out your name. he didn't know what to do with his arms as you wrapped your arms around him ever so gently. should he return… your gesture? but his arms laid uselessly next to him, still too stunned by your response.

yet again, he felt that same tingly feeling where you held him. the warmth that you brought to him reawakened those butterflies, making him feel light and fuzzy. is this ok? is feeling like this ok? is liking you ok?

« stop saying stuff like that about yourself, origami… you keep underselling yourself. you’re incredible, you’re kind, and yet you’re humble. your voice was soft as you spoke. i wasn’t just waxing poetics when i praised you, not just lip service to appeal to you because i could see behind your trick. i meant it when i said i admired you. even before i met you, i’ve admired you. »

you pulled away, if only to place your hands on either side of his face and to lift his eyes, making him face you, properly face you, for the first time in a long time. he was taken aback by how gentle and soft your gaze was. who were those kind eyes for? surely not him. he didn’t deserve such honest adoration. there was no reason for admiration, contentment, or appreciation to have their eyes on him. and yet, those compassionate eyes continue to gaze back at him. your beautiful eyes continued to look back at his own dull eyes.

was this really ok after everything he put you through? was it really ok to derive so much comfort from your hold?

you hoped your continued eye contact conveyed your sincerity.

« origami, you’re one of the most selfless and brave person i’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing, and now i’ve come to learn that you’re handsome to boot. you never cease to amaze me in the best way possible, and im so so grateful that you’re still here ori— finally waking from his daze and regaining some semblance of control over his limbs, he moved his arm to return your hold and wrapped them closely around you. he allowed the warmth he felt to fully consume him and buried his face in the crook of your neck, trying to get as physically close to you as possible. – ivan. he whispered in your ear, almost afraid. – ivan…? you echoed. – … my name is ivan. – is that so? then... thank you, ivan. thank you so so much. thank you for being here for me. thank you for everything. »

he knows now with certainty that he adores the way his name sounded with your voice. he couldn’t see your face from the position you were in, but he could imagine your captivating smile. the same one he adored so much. your careful hands had traveled to his head, stroking his hair, playing with an errant lock, and he adores your touch.

the small kindling that you had lit turned into a newfound courage that consumed him like wildfire. this unwanted and foolish adoration he held for you had proven itself to be phoenix, renewing itself as heartfelt and profound.

if you had allowed it, then he’s sure it was ok to be like this. to like being with you.

he adored you. and he hopes you adored him in kind.

« i— »

as he was about to say something, his communicator beeped relentlessly and he has never hated that sound more in his life until now. taken slightly by surprise, you both let go of each other and looked confused at each other—though he was intimately aware of where you rested your hands when you let go of each other: one on his shoulder, the other one on his hip. the latter of which he thoughtlessly gripped with his free hand, keeping it in place, not willing to part from you quite yet. not willing to let go quite yet. he whipped his right hand up, fumbling between taking this call and apologising to you for having interrupted what had been a very pleasant moment, the unexpected call flustering him. up until now, it had never annoyed him quite to this extent. he grumbled something you didn’t quite catch. his gaze flicked back and forth, from you, to his communicator, back to you.

he needed to take this, he needed to be there for agnes’ briefing. it was time sensitive, but so was the thing he wanted to tell you. he was torn: he needed to tell you something. he needed to answer before his employer forcefully answered his call for him and intruded.

« i… »

the indecision was clear in his eyes, so instead you made the choice for him: « it’s alright, go. »

you let your hand trail up his jaw, and placed it there. his attention was immediately brought back to you and the pleasant buzzing that often followed your touch. you smiled as you felt his hand follow your own and moved to rest it atop yours.

« i’ll be cheering for you, love. »

a/n:  might fuck around and make a fluffy sequel who knows

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