Abstract: A base for a kiln car for firing ceramic ware is constructed so as to have low thermal mass combined with adequate load-supporting strength. It comprises upright load-supporting pillars (16) made of stacked elements (17) and having continuous vertical grooves (20). Peripheral thin ceramic walls (19) slot into the grooves (20), to define central compartments (22) subsequently filled with insulating material, e.g. ceramic fiber. Horizontal bats (18), trapped between elements (17) project at the periphery of the base to form a radiant heat seal with adjacent kiln car bases and the kiln walls.