What are colored slips primarily used for in ceramics?

Colored slips are primarily used in ceramics for decorating surfaces with color. They are liquid mixtures of clay and water, often with added pigments, that can be applied to the surface of leather-hard or bone-dry clay. When applied to the surface, colored slips can create intricate designs, patterns, and textures, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the ceramic piece.

Unlike glazing, which forms a glassy surface upon firing, colored slips can retain a more matte finish and can be used to create a variety of decorative effects. They can be painted, poured, or sponged onto the clay, allowing for versatility in the creative process. Additionally, when the piece is fired, the slip becomes a part of the clay body, adhering well and preserving the applied design.

This decorative capability distinguishes colored slips from other processes or materials used in ceramics, such as glazing, which is primarily for functional reasons, or structural methods that focus on the physical integrity of the piece rather than its aesthetic qualities.