Japanese-Style 20th Century Raku Pot, Signed "Perry"

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This is a classic example of a Japanese Raku-style pot. This pot is signed by "Perry" and exemplifies the level … Read more This is a classic example of a Japanese Raku-style pot. This pot is signed by "Perry" and exemplifies the level of skill required to create a Raku Pot. The glazing process involved in creating this gorgeous glaze is given below.
The Raku Process: Potters shape the clay and fire it once in a normal kiln to make it hard. A special glaze with minerals like copper or iron goes onto the dry piece. The pot goes into a hot gas kiln very fast, reaching about 1,800°F (982°C) in under an hour. The potter uses metal tongs to pull the glowing red-hot piece out while it is still fully heated. The sudden change from a hot kiln to the cool outdoor air causes the glaze to crack, known as crackle. The potter then places the hot pot into a metal bin with wood chips, straw, or paper. The materials catch fire instantly, and the bin is sealed tight with a lid. The fire sucks up all the oxygen inside the bin and pulls oxygen out of the glaze itself. This lack of oxygen changes the metal oxides in the glaze into bright metallic lusters, deep coppers, and dark crackle lines. See less