glazefired

Glazefired refers to ceramic ware that has undergone glaze application followed by firing in a kiln to mature the glaze. The glaze forms a glassy coating that seals the porous clay body, adds color and texture, and enhances durability. This term distinguishes glazefired work from bisque-fired pieces, which have been fired once to harden the clay but are not glazed.

Glazes are glassy mixtures typically made from silica, a flux, and alumina, with colorants and opacifiers as needed. Their maturity depends on formulation and firing temperature, which are often categorized as low-fire (approximately cone 04–06), mid-fire (roughly cone 4–6), and high-fire (cone 8–10) ranges. The firing atmosphere, oxidizing or reducing, can influence glaze color and appearance, particularly for metal-containing glazes.

Application methods include dipping, brushing, pouring, and spraying, after which the piece is fired through a controlled cycle that heats, holds, and cools to achieve a mature glaze surface. Glazefired wares are typically non-porous and waterproof when the glaze has properly matured.

Common glaze defects include crazing (fine cracks), pinholing, and running, which can stem from incompatibilities between glaze and clay body, improper thickness, or incorrect firing schedules. Some glazes, especially those containing lead or cadmium, are subject to safety regulations and restrictions in many jurisdictions, particularly for tableware.

Glazefired pottery is widely used in studio, studio-to-production, and fine art contexts for functional ware and decorative pieces, offering a durable, varied surface that can range from matte to glossy and from transparent to opaque.