Raku glazes vary in color from rich copper tones to silver, gold, blue, and white crackle and in surface from smooth luster to matte and textured surfaces. Raku pots are not for eating or drinking or serving food and should be used only for decorative purposes. All vases are watertight and can be used for flower arrangements. To preserve the rich colors, avoid long hours of direct sunlight.
raku vases
Vases are available in medium and large sizes. Cost ranges from $78 to $350. Mini vases and candlesticks are $45-55. Click on images to enlarge.
raku jars
Each raku jar has a fitted lid with an interesting stone on top. Stones are river rocks, chunks of agate, jade, and other minerals I have collected. Click on images to enlarge.
plates
boxes
Raku tile boxes can be ordered in your choice of wood colors as well as tile designs. Boxes are 5″ square x 2” high, priced at $60. Click on images to enlarge.
ichibanas
An ichibana flower arranger is a classic simple way to display fresh, dried or silk flowers. With a single flower and a sprig of greenery, you can bring nature into your home or workplace. The pin frog holds the stems and by filling the cup with water, you can keep your arrangement looking fresh. This vase can also serve another function—a 2″pillar candle or votive fits perfectly and will add a warm glow to your environment.
Ichibanas are 5-7″ diameter, priced at $55. Click on images to enlarge.
Raku 101
Raku firing is an ancient Japanese ceramics technique that has been used for many centuries to create a very unique finish to wares. Dating back to the 16th century, raku firing creates completely unique pieces as there is never a certainty as to how the final piece will turn out. Raku essentially creates a unique design every time, so there is less control on the outcome. A lovely fact about raku is that its name literally translates as happiness in the accident.
Step 1—Pottery is thrown or hand built and bisque-fired. Work is then glazed using copper-based matte, luster and texture glazes and small accents of white crackle. All areas not glazed will turn black.
Step 2—Pots are placed in a raku kiln, heated to 1850 F. Red hot pots are removed from kiln with tongs and placed on bed of pine needles and covered with a metal can, creating an oxygen reduction chamber.
Step 3—The resulting smoke carbonizes the surface of the pot, resulting in rich, velvety blacks and metallic lusters.
Step 4—Variations in color are the result of the amount of oxygen allowed to reach the pot during the firing process and are unique to each piece. After the pots have cooled, the cans can be removed and the final vibrant colors emerge.