Hagi-ware #2

This time, I introduce how to make Hagi-ware.

Hagi-ware is a very delicate pottery. Because of the characteristics of clay and glaze, each Hagi-ware shows different finishing colors and tones even if they are fired in the same kiln. Hagi-ware craftsmen say that “it is very difficult to make the wares of same tone and pattern.” As you see the photos, even if the shape is identical, the patterns, which are made from combinations of clay and glaze, differ sometimes significantly.

Why these wares always show different patterns?  The reason is the difference of temperature when they are fired in the kiln. It depends where in a kiln to put unfired wares since the firing temperature differs in the kiln from a part to another and the temperature variation causes different chemical reactions.

These photos show some processes of Hagi-ware making. Using a potter’s wheel, craftsmen pay careful attention to leveling the bottom to stabilize the ware, to making regular and smooth at the edge for comfortable use, etc.

When they fire the wares, traditionally a type of kiln called “nobori-gama” (climbing kiln) is used. As you fire at the ground of the kiln, the fire goes up smoothly and effectively to the top part. But the temperature differs from a part to another, and this produces different tones and patterns in finished wares.

When you use a Hagi-ware, it should be interesting to remember its real uniqueness!

Written by Yabuuchi