How Raku is Created
Raku is a special type of pottery that has Japanese Origins. It is created using the same techniques as stoneware until the bisque stage (refer to How Our Pottery is Made). It is glazed with a special glaze that must dry for at least 24 hours before firing. It requires a special kiln and firing takes place outside. The pieces are fired one at a time, very quickly. Instead of a few hours, it takes only a few minutes for the glaze to reach maturity. This causes great stress to the vessels and many crack and break during firing. Once the glaze matures the red hot pieces are immediately placed in pine needles which catch on fire. The ware is then covered with a metal container, blocking much of the oxygen. This causes the reduction effect that gives Raku its characteristic metallic look.
Click on a photo to enlarge.
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Pocahontas Downtown Art Association
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