Potter's Book

'I have tried to formulate a criterion by which good pots may be judged . . . a pot in order to be good should be a genuine expression of life. It implies sincerity on the part of the potter and truth in the conception and execution of the work.'Bernard Leach (1887-1979) is generally reckoned to be the 'father of British studio pottery.' Born in Hong Kong, profoundly influenced by both an upbringing and studies in Japan, Leach developed a vision of pottery that interwove art, craft, design and philosophy. In 1920 he co-founded the Leach Pottery in St Ives, Cornwall, and A Potter's Book was first published in 1940. Within these pages Leach communicates his deeply-held convictions, through an account of the standards and materials essential to English slipware, stoneware, Japanese raku and Oriental porcelain. Faber Finds is devoted to restoring to readers a wealth of lost or neglected classics and authors of distinction. The range embraces fiction, non-fiction, the arts and children's books. For a full list of available titles visit www.faberfinds.co.uk. To join the dialogue with fellow book-lovers please see our blog, www.faberfindsblog.co.uk.

Bernard Leach (1887-1979) was one of the most influential figures in twentieth-century pottery. Born in Hong Kong and brought up in Japan, Hong Kong and England, he trained at the London School of Art and moved to Japan in 1909, where he studied pottery techniques. In 1920 on his return to England he founded the Leach Pottery with Shoji Hamada in St Ives, Cornwall. His best-known work, A Potter's Book, was first published in 1940.