History of Arita Ceramics

 

Ceramics production started in Japan in the 17th century after kaolin was discovered in Senzan in Arita.

From the mid 17th century, large amounts of Arita wares, which captivated the European royalty and nobility, were exported to Europe, through the Dutch trading post on Dejima Island in Nagasaki. Augustus the Strong, Elector of Saxony, was so fond of Arita wares that he ordered ceramics resembling Arita wares to be made in his electorate.

In Arita, the tradition and techniques of Arita ceramics have been preserved for over 400 years, while young potters and workshops take on the challenge of producing ambitious new works.

 

[Akae]

Akae, or iroe, wares are painted in many colors, including red, the predominant color, green, yellow, and cobalt blue.

 

[Hakuji]

Hakuji wares are made by applying transparent glaze over a white surface and firing the ceramics.

 

[Sometsuke]

Sometsuke wares are made by drawing patterns with a blue pigment called gosu, applying glaze over the surface, and firing the ceramics.