Surface Fired Clay

Oaxaca, México

Surface firing is the most common ceramic firing method in Oaxaca, Mexico. Although The “quickfire” method is a short process (usually less than one hour), only the most seasoned potters can successfully fire raw clay to a hardened, durable vessel without damage. The potter reads the fire by sight, feel and smell to frequently adjust the fuel levels needed for a successful firing.   In other words, the process is not as simples as it looks. Successful firing also involves a metamorphosis from harvesting and refining the clay to a clay pot that is skillfully crafted to cooking the clay with searing heat in a technologically simple kiln or on a shallow firing surface. The entire process is accomplished with materials and labor available at the local level in rural communities throughout Oaxaca. This type of pottery has been practiced for thousands of years.  Today’s pots use essentially the same approach as the one used 2000 years ago.

All ceramics fired this way are intended for one main task – cooking meals.  Vessel shapes are generally utilitarian in nature but designed with the flow of heat in mind. This concern is extremely valuable when making a hardened pot that will not easily crack or chip.

Interestingly, every pot is a one-of-a-kind piece with “fire markings” gracing the surface of the clay. Generally, pieces crafted this way are the color of the natural clay and irregular black designs caused by the hot coals and fire sparks that cling to the skin of the clay vessel.