More than any other ceramic process, RAKU pottery - which dates back to 16th century Japan - is the spontaneous outcome of planning and chance. The magic of fire and smoke imbues each piece with a life of its own. Since it is a labor intensive technique, they do only a limited number of RAKU firings each year and view this pottery as something very special. RAKU ware is the ideal decorative accent. Because all RAKU clay bodies are low fired and still porous, they suggest that you insert a glass or plastic container for use with fresh flowers.