What is Raku? 

 

Published by E. Tolliver, The Regal Beast 

 

 

 

Raku ware was originated in Japan by Chojiro, the first

 

generation of the Raku family, during the Momoyama period

 

(1573-1615). 

 

 

Raku firing and glaze was based on the san cai wares that

 

were being produced at the time, within the Kyoto region.

 

They were a three-colored glazed pottery (san cai) based on

 

the technology from the Fujian region of China. Chojiro had

 

 become acquainted with the tea master Sen no Rikyu

 

(1522-1591) and decided to make tea bowls for the tea

 

ceremony (chanoyu). 

 

 

 

Today’s recipes for Raku Glaze are filled with luster and mystery.  They turn gold, with flashes of color and luster. The method of firing in direct flame, then reduction in organic material is similar to the original process.  

 

 

Once you’ve fired Raku there is no turning back.  You may use the same glaze on two pieces in the same firing and realize two totally different affects… 

 

 

If you don’t like your result, well, you can cool the piece, re-glaze it and fire it again.  With porcelain Raku can be a little tricky.  Porcelain is more fragile, and there’s a 50/50 chance that a piece may fracture.  Fractures ADD BEAUTY, they are not a failure.  We do Raku at the Regal Beast.  Clients and Visitors are welcome to drop by and watch.