skip to content

Obvara raku vase

– 1 in stock

The obvara raku process involves dipping the glowing hot piece into a fermented mixture similar to a sourdough starter – to create these organic sepia-toned variations.

Bottle vase in organic sepia-like matte finish. It has a wide base that rounds back into the foot, holding it gently off the table. The walls are like a smeared-plaster, highlighted by the raku-burned toasty brown splatters. At the shoulder a darker ring, then white with subtle splashes as the form angles in to a narrow neck with a slightly flared bowl-like lip. Different angles show variation in texture and raku obvara effects, this angle is darker with highlights where the texture cuts through. And this angle is lighter, with an angular swipe that cuts through some more vertical textures. The smoke-splashes on the neck have a fractal quality, almost snowflake-like, in contrast with the white clay. The base of the piece is inset, with a faceted ring at the outer edge. Me holding the vase with tongs and welding gloves, pulling it from a bucket of obvara solution, as it burns and lets off steam. And then quenching the piece in water, with the rim just above the surface Another angle, with deep textures showing, and my stamp subtly pressed into the foot ring.

Raku process photos by Patrick Griffith. The plaster-like texturing is inspired by a workshop with Akira Satake.

Made by hand in Denver, CO with BMX from Rocky Mountain Clay. Raku firing provides beautiful variation, but not a water-tight or food-safe finish. These pieces can hold water similar to a terra-cotta flower pot, with some moisture seeping out the base. Recommended for dry arrangements, or with a tray underneath.

Details…
size
6.6×5×5 inches
suggested price
$100

See something you like?

If you send me a message, I'll get back to you about payment & shipping options -- or any other questions you have.