1894-1985
male
mino pottery
living national treasure
Around 1586, Shino ware suddenly appeared in records of tea ceremonies, being used as the bowl The Shino ware was being used as the tea bowl in tea ceremonies. During the Keicho period, problems with production efficiency and other issues caused a decline and eventually a complete halt in production.
Arakawa Toyozo, after experiencing much difficulty, revived the tradition of Shino ware, which became a success. He was eventually named a Living National Treasure and is regarded as one of the finest potters in history.
Born on March 21st, 1894. Educated by Miyanaga Tozan, went to Kamakura and aided in the making of pottery at Kitaoji Ronsanjin. In 1930, he discovered the process of using a kiln from the Momoyama period at Ogaya in the Kani district of Gifu prefecture. Nearby, he began to work, building a kiln and reproducing Shino, Yellow Seto (Kizeto), and Black Seto ware (Setoguro). 30 years as a Living National Treasure and 46 years in the Order of Culture. Died August 11th, 1985 at 91 years of age.
