Abstract: A refractory article that can provide a high carrying capacity for generally cylindrical work pieces to be fired while maintaining structural rigidity and integrity. The refractory article can include a body having an opening configured to receive a plurality of substantially cylindrical work pieces and individually support each one of the substantially cylindrical work pieces. In particular embodiments, the present refractory article can include a plurality of discrete containment regions positioned within the opening, each of the discrete containment regions in open communication with adjacent discrete containment regions.