Among the pottery that is used in everyday life, Hasami ware has become increasingly popular in recent years because it is durable and relatively inexpensive. We will introduce the appeal of Hasami ware!
Characteristics of Hasami ware
Simple ceramics that fit into everyday life
The most distinctive feature of Hasami ware is its translucent white porcelain, and the delicate blue-and-white painting called "Gosu" is also a distinctive feature.
The texture of the white porcelain and the indigo blue painting are simple and timeless, giving it a durable and rustic impression.
Unlike Arita ware, this type of pottery has become familiar and loved by ordinary people.
Mass production through division of labor
Hasami ware is produced in Hasami Town, Higashisonogi District, Nagasaki Prefecture, which has a population of just 15,000.
How was it possible for this small town to mass-produce pottery that was loved by so many common people?The answer was the "division of labor" system.
Instead of relying on a single craftsman, the process of molding, creating the mold, glazing, and firing in the kiln was divided among different craftsmen, making it possible to produce the product efficiently. This system is said to have been established in the late Edo period.
The absence of features is a feature
It may seem contradictory, but Hasami ware is said to be characterized by its lack of distinctive features.
This is why it is possible to create new, free-form pottery that is suited to the times, and which gives a familiar yet somehow new and modern impression.
As mentioned earlier, one of their distinctive features is that they are painted with an indigo blue called "Gosu," but they also come in colorful and cute designs.
Types of Hasami ware
Kuwarankara bowl
The most representative example of Hasami ware is the "Kuwararanka bowl."
These tea bowls, with their large bases and comfortable grip, quickly popularized ceramics as an everyday item.
Compliance bottle
During the Edo period, Japanese products were exported from Dejima in Nagasaki through the East India Company.
At that time, the "Complaint Bottle" was used as a container for soy sauce. Due to its shape, it was also used as a vase for a single flower in addition to its original purpose.
Conclusion
The impact of the new coronavirus has hit tourist destinations across the country hard, including producers who sell their products to these destinations.
Traditional crafts that have been cherished throughout Japan's long history may soon be going out.
In order to keep that flame alive, we at The Ichi have prepared Hasami ware restoration bags as part of our Pottery Restoration Project.
Please support us!
