To subject unfired clay vessels to an open flame without the use of a constructed kiln structure. The potter stacks the dry greenware in a shallow pit or on the ground, covers it completely with combustible fuel like wood, sawdust, or dried dung, and ignites it. This low-temperature firing method relies on careful fuel placement and weather conditions to reach the necessary heat to harden the clay.
Heard on the job
We'll bonfire the pinch pots tomorrow morning if the wind stays calm.
Also heard as
- pit fire