høybefyrte

Høybefyrte is a Norwegian term used in ceramics and archaeology to describe wares that have been fired at high temperatures in a kiln. The word combines høy, meaning high, with befyrte, the past participle of fyre, meaning fired or burnt. The term is used to distinguish high-fired ceramics from low-fired wares and to indicate the technological quality of the final object.

Characteristics of høybefyrte ware include vitrification of the body, reduced porosity, and increased strength and durability. Glaze performance tends to be stable, and the wares are often less susceptible to moisture-related damage. The exact firing temperatures depend on the clay body and glaze, but stoneware typically requires temperatures around 1200–1300°C, while porcelain may approach 1300–1400°C or higher. The kiln atmosphere (oxidizing or reducing) also influences color development and glaze behavior in høybefyrte pieces.

Historical and usage context: In Norwegian museums, archives, and archaeological reports, høybefyrte wares are identified by their dense, glassy texture and durable surfaces. The designation is used alongside lower-fired categories to reflect the range of ceramic technology across periods and cultures. In contemporary craft, potters may pursue høybefyrte results to achieve longevity, strength, and glaze stability that high-porosity, low-fired wares do not provide.

See also: Ceramics; Kiln; Stoneware; Porcelain; Firing.