SAGGAR FIRED POTTERY
The Saggar fired work in this display has been sprayed with Terra Sigilata, and then fired in a clay container, or Saggar. They have no glaze on them, and are considered “naked clay”. The Saggar is filled with various combustible materials, such as sawdust, steel wool, copper and salt. These materials leave an imprint on the raw surface of the clay piece as they are fired. Historically the Saggar was used by the early Europeans and Asians to protect their fine porcelain pottery from the wood ash flying around the kiln.
Terra Sigillata or “Sealed Earth” is a clay slip containing only the finest particles of clay. It is made by a process of separation where clay is added to water with a little deflocculant which causes the finest particles of clay to suspend in the water while the heavier particles sink to the bottom. After 24 hours, these fine particles are siphoned off and the rest is thrown away. When painted or sprayed onto a clay surface and lightly rubbed or burnished with your fingers, the platelets of the clay align causing a sealed surface and a beautiful natural sheen. This surface is far more natural looking than the glossy, cold look of a glaze.
Historically, Terra Sigillata has been used as a sealer or decorative coating on pottery for thousands of years. Examples of it can be found on early Roman black and red pottery and also on primitive Native American pottery. 
I've always been drawn to the natural sheen of an unglazed or “naked” piece of pottery. There's something about the soft glow and the feel of a piece of unglazed clay that makes you want to fondle it. However, unlike a glazed piece of pottery, the surface can be fragile. These pieces should be handled carefully. After firing I spray them with an acrylic sealer to protect them from the elements (oil and dirt).