Portland, ME - As the rustle of September knocks at our door, what better way to savor the bounty of our oceans than to serve up a banquet of sushi! Whether you make it yourself, or order take-out, how better to serve it than on pots that have been fired in an anagama – a Japanese climbing kiln?

Beginning September 1, Maine Potters Market has a special display of Betsy Levine's lovely wood-fired platters, sake sets, and other interesting serving and eating pieces: soy bottles, condiment dishes, bowls and more.

One of Betsy's primary concerns in creating pots for the anagama is how the huge flame that licks over the pots for 8 long days will affect the surfaces that are presented to it. The choice of clay, often a sturdy stoneware that flashes beautifully, the placement in the 24 ft. long kiln (the front produces lots of silky ash, low down may provide crunchy surfaces, and high up glazy effects), and the treatment of the surface (to carve, or inlay, or brush on slip, for example) are just some of the considerations that Betsy thinks about when preparing pieces for the fire.

After the 4-person crew spends 4 days loading and 8 days firing, they wait a week while the kiln cools, and imagine the treasures that wait within. Betsy is pleased to share some of these treasures in a special collection of ware that is perfect for celebrating the ocean's gifts during the month of September at Maine Potters Market.