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kiln gods or goddesses

updated mon 16 aug 99

 

Autumn Downey on sun 15 aug 99

Can someone help with the history of kiln gods? I know that they are made
as guardians of a newly built kiln - or even for each firing of a kiln? - to
watch over and bring good results. But I don't know much beyond this. Is
the origin in China or Japan? Or Greece?

Are kiln goddesses common? A friend made wonderful kiln goddesses for our
Guild raku firings. One of these in turn got raku'd and is going to be in
her show. But it seems we only know our local tradition and not the origins.
I didn't find out too much from archives or internet - except that potters
feel much better to have some divine assistance.

Thanks,

Autumn Downey
downeya@internorth.com
Yellowknife, NWT, Canada