Pit firing is one of the oldest pottery techniques in the world, dating back thousands of years. This process harnesses the raw elements of fire, earth, and air to create organic, unpredictable finishes. Unlike modern kiln firing, pit firing takes place in an open flame, where pottery is carefully nestled among wood, sawdust, and natural combustibles. The result? A breathtaking fusion of smoke, flames, and minerals that etch one-of-a-kind patterns onto each piece.
The journey of a pit-fired vessel is labor-intensive and deeply connected to nature. Each piece is shaped by hand, dried slowly, and bisque-fired before its final transformation in the pit. The firing process itself is an event—pottery is arranged in a shallow pit, surrounded by combustible materials, and set ablaze. As the flames dance and the smoke weaves through the clay, subtle blushes, deep charred tones, and ethereal surface effects emerge. No glazes, no artificial finishes—just the raw beauty of fire’s touch.
Because pit-fired pottery undergoes extreme thermal shock, it remains more porous than traditionally fired ceramics. These vessels are best suited for decorative use rather than holding liquids. To preserve their natural beauty, keep them dry and clean them gently with a dry or slightly damp cloth—never in a dishwasher. We finish all our pieces with beeswax, which help bring out the depth of colour and finishes. To keep your pieces looking new, we recommend you do this every few years to reinvigorate their sheen. Each piece is a testament to fire’s unpredictability, the patience of the artist, and the ancient tradition that continues to inspire potters today.
