Raku is a traditional Japanese firing technique that originated in the 16th century and continues to inspire artists around the world today.
What is Raku?
Raku (meaning "joy") describes a firing method in which the ceramics are fired at relatively low temperatures (approx. 900-1050 °C) and then removed from the kiln while still red-hot and placed in a barrel of easily combustible material such as sawdust, hay or leaves.
The western version was essentially modified by Paul Soldner and Bernard Leach in the 20th century and developed into a style of its own.
Raku with glaze
The thermal shock creates the cracks (craquelé) typical of raku, the size and nature of which can be influenced during the process. During the post-reduction process, the smoke removes oxygen and changes the glaze colors. The body is blackened in the areas that were not previously glazed and in the cracks.
Characteristic:
- Intense play of colors
- Metallic effects
- Shiny surfaces
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Raku without glaze
Raku is also exciting without glaze. Here, the raw, bisqued surface is used to create natural, smoky effects. The smoke penetrates the pores of the clay and creates black, gray and sometimes silvery patterns. The interplay of fire and smoke creates natural, earthy surfaces that often have an archaic appearance.
Characteristics:
- Matt, smoky surfaces
- Natural color gradients
- Emphasis on form and structure
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Why Raku is so special
In contrast to the strict Japanese tradition, the Western raku technique is now more of a philosophy in its own right, which focuses on the creation of special ceramic surfaces. Raku is therefore much more than just a firing technique - and is therefore often used for art objects and in sculptural ceramics.
Raku is seen as a dialog between the artist and the elements. Fire, air and earth work together to create the unpredictable. Each piece tells its own story. Each piece is unique.
