Noam Zimin of

Clay Dance Studio

Anagama Wood Firing

The design of the anagama kiln (pronounced, ana-gah-ma) originated in Korea around 1,600 BC. These “tube kilns” were the first in the world to reach temperatures high enough (2,400 degrees) to produce stoneware and porcelain pottery.The design resembles a flame-shaped tube, laying on its side, rising up a hillside. With a firebox at the base and a chimney at the top, it utilizes the natural draft of rising heat.

This kind of wood firing is labor-intensive, time consuming, and requires the coordinated effort of a crew. Several weeks are devoted to cutting and stacking five cords of wood, glazing the ware, and loading the kiln. The firing takes approximately 130 hours over a 5 day period with crews working 6 to 12 hour shifts, around the clock.

Distinctive features of the anagama firing include flashing (from flame impingement) and natural ash glaze. During the firing, fly ash is drawn through the kiln by the natural draft and deposits on the ware, making each piece unique. As the temperature climbs above 2,300 degrees the ash melts, producing a glazed surface.