Ōborisōma ware

大堀相馬焼 急須 (2)

Obori Soma ware (大堀相馬焼, Ōbori Sōma-yaki) is a traditional Japanese pottery produced in the town of Namie, Fukushima Prefecture. It is most famous for its distinctive double-walled construction, celadon glaze, and decorative motifs of galloping horses, which symbolize vitality and freedom. Obori Soma ware has been produced since the early Edo period and remains one of the representative ceramic traditions of the Tōhoku region.

History

The origins of Obori Soma ware date back to the early 17th century, when potters settled in the Obori district under the patronage of the Soma Domain. By the mid-Edo period, the kilns were producing large quantities of tableware and ceremonial items, which became highly valued throughout the region.

The ware flourished particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries, when its unique combination of practical utility and decorative artistry made it popular among samurai families and commoners alike. Production suffered a decline in the late 19th century, but it has been preserved and revitalized in modern times.

Characteristics

Obori Soma ware is distinguished by several unique features:

• **Double-walled construction (二重焼き, nijū-yaki)** – Vessels are made with two layers of clay, which improves insulation and prevents hot liquids from cooling too quickly.
• **Celadon glaze (青磁釉, seiji-yū)** – A translucent bluish-green glaze that covers much of the surface, enhancing the refined appearance of the ware.
• **Horse motifs (走り馬, hashiri-uma)** – Hand-painted or stamped images of galloping horses, often depicted in dynamic motion, symbolizing freedom and energy.

The combination of these elements makes Obori Soma ware both functional and highly decorative. Typical forms include tea cups, sake bottles, bowls, and plates.

Modern Production

Today, Obori Soma ware is recognized as a Traditional Craft of Japan. It continues to be produced by potters in Fukushima Prefecture, though many kilns were damaged or destroyed during the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster. Despite these challenges, local artisans have worked to revive the tradition, and production has resumed in new workshop locations.

The ware is sold both as practical tableware and as decorative art pieces, ensuring that the centuries-old tradition remains alive.

See also

• Japanese pottery and porcelain
• Edo period
• Fukushima Prefecture
• Stoneware

References

• Cort, Louise Allison. Shigaraki, Potters’ Valley. Weatherhill, 1979.
• Fukushima Prefectural Museum. The Pottery of Tōhoku, exhibition catalog, 2004.