"The overall size of a round vessel is determined by the mold, but the smoothness and finish of its surface depend on the polisher. This work belongs to a separate stage of production known as turning.
The polisher works at a polishing wheel, similar in form to a potter's wheel, but fitted with a wooden support projecting upward at its center. The size of the support varies according to the size of the porcelain vessel being finished.
Its rounded top is wrapped in raw silk to protect the interior of the piece from damage. The vessel is placed over the support, the wheel is set in motion, and the surface is carefully pared with a knife until both the inside and outside is given the same perfectly smooth finish. The quality of the finish, whether coarse or fine, depends entirely on the skill of the polisher, whose work is therefore of great importance.
With regard to the next process, that of scooping out the foot, it is necessary, because each piece, when first fashioned upon the potter's wheel, has a paste handle left under the foot, two or three inches long, by which it is held while it is being painted and glazed.
It is only after the glazing and the painting of the decoration are finished, that this handle is removed by the polisher, who at the same time scoops out the foot, after which the mark is written underneath.
In the picture the workmen are seen occupied in the two processes of polishing the surface and scooping out the foot."
