Wood Firing

Wood-fired ceramics are a captivating blend of artistry and chemistry, achieved through a firing process that combines natural materials, intense heat, and time-honored techniques. Wood-firing, as the name suggests, involves firing ceramics in a kiln fueled by wood instead of electric or gas sources. The kiln, typically made of bricks to withstand high temperatures, is custom-designed to optimize the passage of flame and ash through the pieces, which creates a unique surface texture and color that distinguishes wood-fired ceramics from other types.

 

An exhaustive process

The wood-firing process begins with loading the kiln, where pieces are carefully placed to maximize exposure to ash and flame. Once loaded, the kiln is gradually heated by adding wood, typically over several days, to reach extremely high temperatures—often upwards of 2400°F (1300°C). This intense, prolonged firing allows the flames and wood ash to interact directly with the surface of the ceramics. As the wood burns, ash is carried through the kiln by the movement of heat and air. When this ash lands on the pottery, it melts and forms a natural glaze, creating unpredictable and varied textures and colors that cannot be achieved with conventional glazing techniques.

Aesthetics of wood-fired

The aesthetic appeal of wood-fired ceramics lies in their unique, organic qualities. Each piece showcases a complex interplay of color, texture, and form, shaped by factors like the type of wood used, firing duration, and placement within the kiln. The results often feature earthy hues, natural ash deposits, and "flashing" patterns where the flame directly touched the surface. This effect gives each piece a one-of-a-kind character, reflecting the inherent beauty of the natural firing process.

Stoking the fire

Wood-fired ceramics tend to cost more than other types of pottery due to the labor-intensive and time-consuming nature of the process. Wood-firing requires more manual effort—constantly stoking the fire, monitoring temperatures, and managing the kiln environment over several days. Additionally, the custom-built brick kilns used are expensive to construct and maintain. The unpredictability of the process also means that not all pieces survive the intense firing unscathed, resulting in a lower yield of successful, high-quality pieces. These factors, combined with the unique aesthetic qualities, make wood-fired ceramics both rare and highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts.