Raku, an ancient method of firing pottery, was
developed in 16th Century Japan for the tea ceremony.
It embraces the elusive Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi,
thus celebrating  the whims of nature. Works  were prized for
their spontaneity and uniqueness, as well as their simple beauty.
Evidence of the firing,  such as unusual  crackle patterns or tong
marks are coveted, as this imparts more character to the work.

In Raku, the clay is rapidly fired until the glaze is molten. Then, it's
removed with tongs and placed into a combustion chamber
where it  is smoked. Next  it  is cooled  in water, and  later
washed. The relationship of fire and  air is critical  in the
development of colors, lusters, and smoke patterns.

The crackle glazes render Raku pieces porous
and  therefore nonfunctional.
They are to be enjoyed
as art.

A N G E L A  d e  M O T T