Mashiko ware
Mashiko ware (益子焼, Mashiko-yaki) is a type of Japanese pottery produced in and around the town of Mashiko in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. Known for its rustic simplicity, natural glazes, and robust shapes, Mashiko ware has become one of the most recognizable examples of Mingei (folk craft) pottery in Japan.
History
Pottery production in Mashiko began in 1853, when a potter from nearby Kasama, Keisaburō Ōtsuka, established a kiln in the area. The clay found in Mashiko proved to be highly workable and well-suited for everyday ware, leading to the growth of the pottery industry in the region.
Originally Mashiko ware was primarily made for utilitarian purposes—storage jars, water vessels, pickling containers, and everyday tableware. These items were sold locally and to surrounding prefectures.
In the 20th century, Mashiko ware became internationally known thanks to the influence of Shōji Hamada (1894–1978), a leading figure in the Mingei movement. Hamada settled in Mashiko in 1924, where he worked to revive traditional techniques and promote the value of handcrafted pottery. His work, along with that of other potters, attracted global attention to Mashiko as a pottery town.
Characteristics
Mashiko ware is known for:
- Local clay: The clay from Mashiko contains a high iron content, producing a warm, earthy tone after firing.
- Natural glazes: Common glazes include ash (nami-jiru), kaki (persimmon-brown), namako (blue-grey), and white slip.
- Rustic simplicity: The shapes are typically robust and unpretentious, reflecting the folk craft aesthetic.
- Handcrafted nature: Even in modern times, much of Mashiko ware is made by hand on the potter’s wheel.
The firing process traditionally uses climbing kilns (noborigama), though electric and gas kilns are now common.
Mashiko Today
Mashiko remains a thriving pottery town with over 400 kilns and workshops. It hosts the Mashiko Pottery Fair twice a year (spring and autumn), attracting thousands of visitors from Japan and abroad. Many contemporary potters in Mashiko balance tradition with innovation, creating both classic utilitarian wares and modern artistic pieces.
The town also houses the Mashiko Museum of Ceramic Art, which preserves the legacy of Shōji Hamada and exhibits works from potters around the world.
Notable Potters
- Shōji Hamada – Living National Treasure, key figure in Mingei movement.
- Tatsuzō Shimaoka – Student of Hamada, awarded the title of Living National Treasure in 1996.
- Numerous contemporary artisans carrying forward Mashiko's traditions.
See also
References
- Cort, Louise Allison. Shōji Hamada: A Potter's Way and Work. Kodansha International, 1979.
- Mashiko Museum of Ceramic Art official site.
- Japan National Tourism Organization: Mashiko Pottery.
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