Construction of the smaller willow kiln started in January 2015 and was completed in June 2015. Construction of the larger brick kiln began in January 2015 and the first firing was in August 2016
Digging out the plot
The kiln base of the small willow kiln being excavated.
Foundations being excavated and levelled
Levelling the foundations is essential as Anagama Kilns are typically staggered to allow maximum airflow, therefore each level had to be very precise.
Brick Works
Now levelled the brick kiln receives its foundation of bricks and concrete.
The Team
The project was lucky enough to have five experienced Anagama kiln builders. On the far left is Kaz, who is an apprentice potter to a Japanese Living Treasure and is a 20th generation potter!
Laying the bricks
Here Kaz can be seen taking a break from brick lining the bottom of the brick kiln.
The willow structure
The internal structure is supported by willow to begin with, hence the name willow kiln.
Applying the hessian
Robin and Jim pasting on the hessian layer over the willow structure.
Layer it up!
Layers of clay are added from the base upwards, these layers form the walls of the willow kiln.
Almost finished
Jim next to the almost finished smaller willow kiln.
The willow structure
Underneath the bricks a willow support is use to get the right shape for the kilns walls.
Before the willow structure is taken away
An inside view of the kiln really shows the ingenious engineering that has been used for centuries in Japan
The inside completed
Ready for pots!