- A layer of microcrystalline wax-polish has been applied to the inside of the pot, creating a waterproof layer.
- Always place Raku vases on a coaster.
- Use cold water for cleaning. Not suitable for the dishwasher.
Raku ware (楽焼, raku-yaki) is a type of Japanese pottery traditionally found in tea ceremonies since the 16th century. Raku-fired pottery is recognised by its glaze, hand-shaped, and relatively porous clay body. These characteristics result from low firing temperatures and the removal of pieces from the kiln, a type of oven used by ceramists, while still red/orange hot.
In the traditional Japanese firing process of raku, pots are first bisque-fired in a kiln over 8-15 hours and left to slowly cool. The next step is applying the Raku glaze and firing again in the kiln for approx 45mins. The crucial difference between raku pottery and other firing methods is that raku pots are removed from the hot kiln whilst red hot and are left to cool quickly in the open air. Due to the rapid change in temperature, cracks appear in the glaze on pots. The pots are then placed in a pit fire and covered with sawdust and paper starving the clay of oxygen and the smoke marking any cracks or non-glazed areas black.
Raku glazed and fired pottery items are not 100% waterproof or food safe. If using as a vase, always place a coaster or tray under the Raku item.
Raku fired pots are intrinsically linked to the Japanese philosophical concept of Wabi-Sabi and Zen Buddhism. Its rise marked a critical point in the historical evolution of Japanese ceramics.
