Raku
For both processes, Raku is fired at lower temperatures than western high-fire ceramics, resulting in a amassed porous and somewhat delicate vessel. Neither the Raku bisque devouring nor the glaze bonfire is fueled hotter than 1940 degrees F. Western stoneware, on the contrary, is bisque fired to 2350 degrees F. The differences calumniation in firing times, temperatures and techniques.
Raku Technique
Commensurate most ceramic firing techniques, Raku ware undergoes two firings: the bisque and the glaze fires.Raku is a approach that was developed in 15th century Japan to build ceramic bowls for the tea ceremony. Although the exact means and particular uses of Raku pottery retain evolved over bit, now craftspeople lengthen to delight in Raku's inborn lustre, crackle glaze and smoky surfaces as all the more as the dramatic technique that produces them. Both Raku pottery and universal stoneware undergo coincident steps to accomplish a durable clay product.
History
The Japanese potter Chôjirô developed Raku to build monochromatic hand-built (not trundle thrown) tea bowls in opposition to the colourful, highly decorated pieces that were then in end. Chôjirô's esthetic design was to eliminate movement, ornament and variation of conformation to amassed closely range with the philosophy of "nothingness" derived from Zen Buddhism, according to the Raku Museum.
The origin of western pottery is prehistoric. Shards of pottery include been initiate on every continent and from virtually every extent in bit. Its roots defamation in the Useful clay-lined baskets and vessels used for storing foods, oils and wine. In contrast, the Raku system developed adjacent in version for a particular ceremonial drift.
Characteristics
The Raku glaze fire is quick and process oriented. Contemporary Raku potters end the firing with a heavy reduction, which creates the unusual luster colors and smoked areas. Experts learn to foretell and control Raku results, but novices enjoy the unpredictable results and the dramatic process.
Regular high-fire ceramics, such as stoneware, require a longer firing process with more gradual temperature changes. Times and temperatures are determined by the ingredients in the clay body and the glazes.
Raku Glaze Firing
Raku pieces are removed from the kiln with tongs as soon as the glaze melts and are placed immediately in a metal can filled with a combustible material, such as sawdust, paper or leaves. The ware is cooled quickly, and the carbon from the combustible material is brushed away, revealing glaze effects determined as much by the fire and smoke and as by the glaze itself.
High-Fire Western Technique
The temperature of the glaze fire kiln in the traditional western high-fire ceramic technique is carefully controlled to accomplish predictable results. Western glazes behave differently at specific temperatures so that the ceramicist controls the process from start to finish. While a reduction phase in the glaze fire is a normal part of a ceramicist's practice, it is only in Raku that the reduction takes place rapidly and outside the kiln with combustible materials.
Uses
Raku is not suitable for use in food preparation or service. Use high-fire ceramics instead.
