These vessels were created in a raku kiln using the Saggar Firing method. The word Saggar
means container and was originally used to protect the finish of a piece
from debris inherent in a wood or coal fueled atmosphere. Roughly 200 years ago, potters decided to reverse this and use the saggars to hold material near the pieces to dramatically change the finish.
The materials used are varied and can include Ferric Chloride, Cobalt carbonate, Manganese,
Miracle Grow, Sea Salt and combustibles such as banana and orange peels, Cabbage leaves,
coffee grounds, steel wool, and copper wire.
The chosen materials are wrapped around the piece and contained in an aluminum foil saggar
and fired to 1800˚F. The saggars are then allowed to cool naturally before being opened.
These pieces are decorative and not food safe or water tight.