ALCARAZ′ZA

[Sp.] A species of porous earthenware, or a ve el formed of it, made in Spain from a light, sandy marl, and but slightly fired. Their value as ‘coolers’ arises from the copious evaporation of the water, which gradually transudes. A similar ware and articles are made in France, under the name of HYGROCERA′MEN ; and in England, under the names of POROUS WARE , WATER COOLERS , WINE COOLERS , BUTTER COOLERS , . The following are forms said to be used in our potteries:— Prep. 1. Take of sandy marl, 2 parts; brine, q. s.; make a dough, and then knead in of common salt, in fine powder, 1 part. Bake the pieces slowly, and lightly. 2. Good clay, 2 parts; fine siliceous sand, 3 parts; brine, q. s.; common salt, 1 to 2 parts; as before. 3. Powdered clay, 2 parts; powdered charcoal, 3 parts (by weight); water q. s. to form a stiff dough. The kilning must be so arranged that the heat is applied gradually, and the ve els exposed to a current of hot air; and it must be continued until all the charcoal is burnt out, carefully avoiding over-firing.