It is believed that Akogi ware was founded by Nunami Suiga, apprentice of Nunami Rozan, the founder of Banko ware. With an invitation from the Todo clan, Suiga established a kiln in the village known as Anto Village at that time, and started making pottery. (Mid-Edo period–Late Edo period.)
That is why it was called Anto ware at first. After that, the kiln was moved to the Baba Family Residence, near the castle town. From that time on, they have taken the name “Akogi ware” after Akogiura, and their kiln was used as the official kiln for the domain. They mainly made everyday items.
Later on, the kiln was shut down, but a wealthy merchant called Kurata Kyuhachi restored it under the orders of the domain. After that, during the Meiji Restoration, all support from the domain ceased. Wealthy merchants cooperated to support Akogi ware, but they ended up closing the kiln due to a shortage in human resources.
Even so, many people missed Akogi ware, and in 1901, the Akogi Ware Production Company was established. However, they were hit by an economic crisis right after that due to the Russo-Japanese War, forcing them to shut down the workshop.
In 1931, the mayor of Tsu City, Horikawa Yoshiya, invited a Banko ware potter called Fukumori Enji, and planned for the restoration of Akogi ware once again. It was financially difficult at first, but after the war, they switched from making everyday items to making tea utensils with high value added. Akogi ware was finally restored. Currently, Akogi ware follows the style of the old Banko ware, which is why it is currently passed down as Fukumori Akogi.
