raku

Raku

Raku (pronounced ra-koo), is a Japanese word which means enjoyment and pleasure. The process originated over 400 years ago in Japan. The original pieces were tea bowls made for use in the Japanese Tea Ceremony.

Raku is a low temperature technique for firing porous clay pieces. These pieces are pulled red hot from the kiln with tongs. The post-firing process can vary widely, but generally involves burying the hot pieces in a combustible material, such as sawdust, rice hulls, or straw.
The flames from this combustion alter the glazed surface resulting in a crackled glaze, various lusters, beautiful colors and a smoked clay body. There is virtually no control in the extent of color and pattern and consequently no two pieces are alike.

Due to the delicate nature of the glaze, raku can be damaged by water and heat. If you want to use the piece as a vase, a plastic or glass liner should be placed in the pot.
Raku looks best when it’s well lit, but avoid direct sunlight as it will dull the glaze coloring over time.