rakukah

Rakukah is a term that refers to a traditional Japanese pottery technique. It is characterized by its distinctive glazes and firing process. The name "rakukah" itself is derived from the Japanese word "raku," meaning enjoyment or ease. This technique was developed in the 16th century and is closely associated with the Japanese tea ceremony, where Raku ware teabows are highly prized for their tactile qualities and rustic beauty.

The process involves hand-forming the clay, often with a focus on organic and irregular shapes. After the initial firing, the piece is coated with a unique glaze. This glaze typically contains lead and copper, which react to create vibrant colors and textures. The crucial step in the Raku process is the rapid cooling of the piece. Immediately after being removed from the kiln while still red-hot, the pot is plunged into a combustible material such as sawdust or straw. This causes the glaze to crackle and allows for a direct interaction between the clay and the combustible material, often resulting in metallic lusters and smoky effects.

Raku pottery is known for its unpredictability. The intense heat and the post-firing reduction process mean that each piece is unique, with variations in glaze appearance and surface decoration. This element of surprise and the connection to nature's forces are central to the appeal of Raku ware. While originally used for tea ceremony utensils, Raku techniques are now employed by ceramic artists worldwide for decorative as well as functional pieces.