Akahada ware

Double-spouted Sake Decanter LACMA M.2004.299.2a-b

Akahada ware (Japanese: 赤膚焼, Akahadayaki) is a traditional type of Japanese pottery produced in Nara Prefecture, particularly around Nara City and Yamato Koriyama. It is known for its soft-toned glazes, gentle reddish hues, and the use of distinctive hand-painted decorations known as Nara-e (奈良絵). The ware is highly valued in the Japanese tea ceremony and is considered one of the kilns associated with the tea master Kobori Enshū.

History

The origins of Akahada ware date back to the late Azuchi–Momoyama period (late 16th century). Around 1585, Toyotomi Hidenaga, the younger brother of Toyotomi Hideyoshi and lord of Koriyama Castle, encouraged pottery production using clay from Mount Akahada near Nara. During the early Edo period, Akahada became one of the “Seven Kilns of Enshū”, a group of pottery traditions favored by Kobori Enshū, whose aesthetic ideals deeply influenced Japanese tea ceramics.

After periods of decline, the craft was revived in 1785 under the patronage of Yanagisawa Yasumitsu, lord of Koriyama. Two potters, Inosuke and Jihee, were commissioned to restore the kilns. Their efforts ensured the continuation of the tradition into the modern era. Today, several Akahada kilns remain active, preserving traditional methods while adapting to contemporary tastes.

Characteristics

Clay and Glaze

Akahada ware is made from local clay containing red iron oxide, which gives the pottery its characteristic reddish tone—especially visible on unglazed parts. The glaze is usually transparent or slightly milky white, producing a soft luster that highlights the natural color of the clay. Traditional wood-fired climbing kilns (noborigama) are still used in some workshops, resulting in subtle variations and natural ash effects.

Decoration: Nara-e

A hallmark of Akahada ware is the use of Nara-e painting, a local decorative style featuring simple, expressive motifs such as temples, deer, trees, and scenes from folklore or Noh plays. These designs are often painted in iron underglaze or light color pigments, creating an elegant yet playful appearance.

Forms

Akahada ware is especially associated with the tea ceremony and includes a variety of forms such as tea bowls (chawan), tea caddies, water jars, and cups (yunomi). The shapes are typically simple and organic, emphasizing natural beauty and the aesthetic of wabi-sabi.

Cultural Significance

Because of its long connection to the tea ceremony, Akahada ware embodies both spiritual and artistic values in Japanese culture. The pottery’s calm tones, imperfect textures, and modest decoration reflect the harmony and restraint central to the tea aesthetic. Today, Akahada ware remains a symbol of Nara’s cultural heritage. Workshops and museums in the area continue to promote the craft, offering pottery experiences and exhibitions for visitors.

Modern Production

Several kilns continue to produce Akahada ware, often led by artisans from long-established families such as the Oshio family. While tea utensils remain the most traditional form, modern potters also create tableware and decorative pieces that blend classical motifs with contemporary design.

See also

• Japanese pottery and porcelain
• Enshū’s Seven Kilns
• Japanese tea ceremony
• Nara Prefecture

References

• Akahada ware – Wikipedia
• Nara Sightseeing – Akahada Ware
• Akahadayaki official site
• Quality Chanoyu – Akahada Celadon Chawan
• Kominka Zakka – Oshio Gyokusen Yunomi