I have ventured of late into some functional pieces. I am not sure yet how the design of these will settle, but they are a whole new direction from the round forms from before. The catalyst was discovering that nanotechnology has arrived in the stone sealing industry. Manufacturers now produce food safe sealants that to some extent make these smokefired pieces functional. Although nothing seems to stop tumeric staining, tomato sauce, soy, red wine and water are resisted. Having said that, I am not sure I would risk a dish this pretty being stained by food! I am therefore telling people to be careful....