Pit firing - Embarcing the unpredictable

I had read and seen a lot of artists creating unique pit fired pots and the unpredictability of the results is what drew me to it. Not that other firing methods are any less mysterious. Each style of firing brings with it a whole gamut of challenges and experiences. But pit firing can be a cathartic experience, both physically and emotionally, for one learns to embrace its raw and unpredictable nature. The unpredictability of the flames, the organic interaction of the materials and the raw exposure to the elements create a deeply expressive and emotional experience. The act of placing the pots into the fire, relinquishing control to nature, and then revealing the final, unique patterns can feel both transformative and freeing. 

Pit firing is one of the earliest known methods of firing pottery, dating back over 10,000 years. Throughout history, various cultures—including Native American tribes, the Japanese Jomon people, African potters, and ancient civilizations like the Maya and Mesopotamians have used this technique which was essential for creating functional and decorative pottery long before the invention of kilns. Today, pit firing is practiced worldwide, not just for its historical significance but also as a deeply artistic and therapeutic process that allows for unique, one-of-a-kind finishes shaped by fire and nature.

Preparing the pots

Just like a strong foundation shapes the final masterpiece, the first steps are crucial to success.For pit firing, its important to choose the clay body which is naturally coarse or grogged with a low expansion rate making the clay body open and more resistant to thermal shock. During the process, the pots go through rapid temperature change ranging from room temperature to high heat and back. 

Since there is no glazing involved, the surface can be enhanced and polished using terra sigillata. After applying terra sig, burnish the surface with a smooth stone, spoon, or soft cloth for extra shine. This step enhances the reflective quality and smoothness of the final piece. 

Setting up the Pit 

Location courtesy - Priyanka Jain

Setting up a pit for pit firing involves choosing a safe, open location and digging a shallow pit, typically 2-3 feet deep. A base layer of sawdust, sand, or dry combustibles cushions the pots and enhances smoke patterns. Completely dry pots are carefully arranged with space between them, surrounded by organic materials like seaweed, dry leaves, banana peels, citrus rinds, peanuts shells etc which help bring some random yet beautiful patterns and flashes. Along with the organic materials, colour enhancing materials like copper carbonate, Copper sulphate, copper wire and different oxides are also placed near the pots. 

Layers of combustible materials such as wood, cowdung cakes, and dried leaves are added on top of the pots  before igniting the fire gradually to prevent thermal shock. The temperature in a pit firing ranges between 600°C to 900°C. Once the fire burns down, the pottery is left to cool slowly overnight. Its imperative to not rush through this final step as this may cause thermal shock to the pots leading to cracks. 

The moment of revelation in pit firing is nothing short of magic. No two pieces are ever alike; each bears the signature of the flames; swirls of deep black, flashes of copper blush, delicate greys and earthy reds. In the end, pit-fired pottery is not just about the final form, but the journey—one where fire leaves its signature, and the potter embraces the magic of the unknown.