What is 'bisqueware' in the pottery-making process?

Bisqueware refers to pottery that has undergone the first firing process and has been transformed from raw clay into a more durable and stable form. This initial firing removes moisture and creates a porous body, but the pottery has not yet been glazed. The purpose of this stage is to prepare the pottery for glazing, as the bisqueware can absorb moisture and allows for better adhesion of the glaze during the second firing.

In this stage, the pottery becomes stronger and can be handled more easily, making it a crucial step in the pottery-making process before moving on to decoration and glazing. The further firings and glazing enhance its aesthetic and functional qualities but it is the first firing that defines the bisqueware stage.