A behind-the-scenes look at every stage of the process, photographed at the family's workshop in Southeast Asia.
Every piece begins here. Ian is based in SE Asia and visits this family's workshop regularly (he's got the best job!). It's where we've built a relationship rooted in trust, craft, and shared values. The lady here is K. Max (nickname). Her skill is incredible!
At the heart of the workshop stands a traditional wood-fired brick kiln. The same design used by the family for generations.
The process starts with clay sourced directly from the local river. Each batch is kneaded by hand to remove air and achieve the right consistency.
Working with steady hands and practised instinct, the clay takes its first form on a traditional potter's wheel.
No two pieces are shaped in exactly the same way. Each one responds to the touch of the maker.
Once the clay is firm enough, the artisan selects a hand tool to begin carving. The designs are drawn from the family's own creative tradition.
Each pattern is carved freehand, a skill that takes years to develop and cannot be replicated by machine.
The finished pieces are carefully packed into large firing pots, which protect them and control the flow of heat and smoke during firing.
For the distinctive black and grey finishes, rice husks (a by-product of the local rice harvest) are added to the firing pots. The husks reduce oxygen inside the kiln, creating the deep, smoky tones.
The firing pots are loaded into the kiln by hand. The placement affects how heat and smoke move around each piece. Another variable that makes every item unique.
Inside the kiln, pieces are stacked with care. The firing process takes hours, with the wood fuelling a slow, controlled burn that develops the final colour and finish.
A simple, natural by-product of the harvest. Rice husks have been used for centuries to create the rich, earthy tones that define our ceramics collection.