CERAMIC BIRD OF HAPPINESS No 351 ISSA
Raku firing really is one of the most natural techniques that you can encounter in working with clay. In loose translation the word “raku” means contentment and enjoyment in happy accident..
Originally created for the Korean tea ceremony, and further developed in 16th century Japan.
In raku firing all of nature’s elements are used in the process – earth, fire, air and water and together they create an unpredictable and unique style .
The process of Raku firing differs from other firing methods because it requires the fast removal of the piece from the furnace at their maximum temperature. While red hot, the pieces can be reduced using smoke from flammable materials, or enhanced with alcohol, or decorated with horse/pet hair and feathers.
It is a rather dangerous, unpredictable and amazing process.