What is bisqueware?

Bisqueware refers to clay that has undergone the initial firing process in a kiln after it has been shaped and dried. This firing transforms the clay into a sturdy and porous state, enabling it to retain its form while allowing for the subsequent application of glazes or decorative elements. At this stage, the ware is no longer classified as raw clay, and it is not yet finished; it still requires a second firing after glazing to achieve the final product.

In contrast, dried clay refers to a previous stage before any firing occurs, while painted clay implies that the surface has received a decorative application without specific reference to the firing process. Clay that is "ready for firing" may not yet have completed the drying phase necessary for bisque firing to take place. Therefore, understanding bisqueware as the clay that has been fired once is crucial because it distinguishes it from other stages in the ceramic-making process.