Jump to content

Christening A New Kiln - The Kiln Gods


Recommended Posts

So I'm gearing up to christen the new to me kiln and keep seeing references to offerings to the Kiln Gods :)

 

How about the Gods themselves?  Is it considered good luck or bad luck to actually create an effigy to offer to?

 

I'm a firm believer that a large part of luck is being prepared but the slightly superstitious part of me doesn't discount fate/karma/golden rule.

 

Any other Kiln God practices?

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I can't speak for everyone, but creating kiln gods, is just something fun to do, as opposed to actually thinking they work.  I know a lot of classrooms/ studios will have individuals make them, because it's tradition.  

 

They are kind of like Jack-O-Lanterns.  I doubt there are too many people, who carve them to ward off evil spirits, but they're fun to have around.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I have said for years that my husband is of the opinion we have magical Pixies that come through and clean the house up. Having them working the kiln sounds like an even better idea!

 

Aren't we supposed to put out dishes of cream or something to keep the house pixies happy???

 

T

Link to comment
Share on other sites

i like hedging my bets ... kiln gods, guard dogs, magical pixies ... whatever!  It makes me smile like just about everything else about the mud.  To that end I made a figure in class tonight although it does look more like the fertility goddess/stone figure from The 13th Warrier.  It's now sitting on top of the kiln drying surveying her domain.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I keep a small bowl next to the kiln and make an offering, usually coffee or tea, to what ever god watches over the kiln.  I don't personally believe in one, but just in case, I don't want to be rude and offend.  So far it seems to be working, the god takes pots from the kiln on a regular basis and at random.

 

 

Link to comment
Share on other sites

we built a new big gas kiln a few years ago at our group studio.  we named it "Betty"  after a recently deceased beloved member.  Its even engraved on the metal casing.  I like to think her spirit looks after that kiln.  Its good to give them names as they sort of develop a persona even if its just unique firing characteristics.  we have quite a few little kiln diety figures. not sure where they came from.  these traditions are fun and sort of comforting.   rakuku

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Archived

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

By using this site, you agree to our Terms of Use.