WOOD-FIRED STONEWARE BONSAI POTS
Wood-fired means these pots were fired by hand in a wood-fired kiln after loading the wares into the kiln and bricking up the door. You begin a small fire in the firebox, which you build up very slowly. At the start, you are aiming for about 50-100 degrees per hour for the first 16 to 18 hours. After 24 hours, the temperature reaches 1950 – 2400 degrees. The last firing we did, we fired for 41 hours. During this firing, we burned two cords of wood. After finishing the firing, you wait a week for the kiln to cool down and unload. Wood firing offers excellent effects on your wares.
Stoneware is a high-fired clay, usually with some grog. I have used several varieties of clay in my work. After 39 years of studying the art of Bonsai, I decided to make some Bonsai pots. I began with simple low-fired works. My teacher introduced me to wood firing. Although, you can have up to 40 % loss in the process of wood firing. I loved the effects of wood firing on the clay. Many of my works have no glaze applied; the glaze is formed from silica in the clay and wood ash, which combine in the firing process. The results often amaze even experienced potters. When I decided to go with wood firing, I began with slabs formed over rocks and deadwood. I did a few ‘more traditional pieces. Then decided to branch off to more non-traditional works.
Contact me if you are interested in acquiring any of my works.
Phil Malhiot
bonsaiphil@gmail.com
