This unique one off bud vase was wheel thrown and then fired using the ancient Japanese firing technique of Raku.
 
The special effects and black cracks are formed when the pottery is removed from the kiln when red hot and then cooled quickly before being placed in a bucket of combustable materials.  The drastic thermal shock produces the the glaze to crack and the smoke from the combustibles fills the cracks and turns them black.
 
The vase has been waterproofed to enable you to fill it with water, however if placed on a wooden surface it is best to use a coaster to ensure that it doesnt mark.