Raku is such an exciting process
The first time I took the thongs and gloves on and placed the pot in the red flaming kiln my heart raced with apprehension and fear. The fire is close and the temperature is over 1800 degrees. The results were always different and I soon learned that this is a fine art that requires timing in addition to so many other decisions.
This is an ancient Japanese technique, and the story I heard went something like this.
The Emperor of Japan discovered that he was to have very important guests from another land within 24 hours time. In an effort to impress his visitors he called upon his Potter to make a tea set, and told him that he needed it in 24 hours
If the potter could not produce this new set within this time frame he would be executed. Fact or Fable, I have no idea, but it is a good story and it produced a very exciting firing process.
I hope you enjoy my FRUIT SERIES
