PICTURE - RELIEF (GOLD-RAKU)

"Raku" technique is a special ceramic technique that originates from Japan. This technique dates back to the 16th century and developed as a way of creating unique and rustic ceramic objects.


The raku pottery process usually includes the following steps:

1. Shaping: First, a ceramic object is made, such as a vase, bowl or sculpture.

2. Drying: The item is carefully dried before ironing to ensure a solid structure.

3. Glaze: A special glaze is applied to the object, which can be enriched with metals such as copper, silver or gold. This glaze gives raku ceramics a characteristic look and shine.

4. Firing: The ceramic object is placed in a kiln and fired at very high temperatures (usually between 800°C and 1000°C) for a relatively short time.

5. Removal from the furnace: After firing, the hot object is removed from the furnace and immediately placed in a container with organic materials (such as sawdust, dry grass or paper). Covering the hot ceramic with an organic material ignites the flame, a process called "raku" firing.

6. Cooling: After the object is caught in the flame, it is left to cool. This creates a special effect of cracked glass glaze and traces of smoke on the ceramic surface, giving it a unique, rustic and organic look.

Raku ceramics is known for its unpredictability and the uniqueness of each individual piece. Each object has different flame marks, color and texture, which is what makes this technique so attractive to artists and collectors. Raku ceramics often have an aesthetic appeal and hold a special place in the world of ceramics because of their special process and results.