1846-1920
male
kyo pottery
imperial household artist
Born as the 1st son of Ito Zensuke in Sanjo Awataguchi.
Studied painting under Koizumi Tozan, the Enzan style painter, around the age of 12. At this time, helped Tozan with painting teacups and creating earthen teapots, which Tozan also carried out in addition to painting to make a living, and decided to switch to ceramics. Later became an apprentice of Kameya Kyokutei, the potter in Gojozaka, and started making ceramics seriously. In addition, engaged deeply in research by visiting the kilns of the 3rd generation Takahashi Dohachi, Murata Kisui, Kanzan Denshichi, Taizan Yohei, Ichimonjiya Chubei (Hattori Gyozan), and Iwakurasan Kichibei. Started the Tozan kiln in Gion Shirakawa in 1867 and produced tea sets, sake sets, and other highly creative works. Started making Western tableware and accessories once the Meiji era started and proactively engaged in overseas trade. Received a request from Matsubayashi Chobei in 1873 to revive Asahi ware in Uji and became employed.
Appointed as the Vice President upon the establishment of the Awata Ceramic Collective in 1884. Became a Founding Member upon the establishment of the Kyoto Ceramic Business Collective in 1896, later becoming a Director and President. Contributed to the unification of Kyo ware.
Also contributed to the establishment of Yutoen and Kyoto Prefectural Ceramic Experimental Institute and made an effort to improve design and techniques, guide potters, and nurture successors. Received a Medal with a Green Ribbon in 1899. In terms of production, moved the shop and factory to Sanjo Shirakawa in 1909 and prospered increasingly under the name of Tozan ware in Japan and overseas.
Also received the artist name of To-o in 1912 from Prince Kuni Kuniyoshi to commemorate his achievements across many years and production techniques, as well as the Imperial honors of Gold and Silver Seals. Appointed as an Imperial Household Artist in 1917.
Employed to revive the Omi Zeze ware kiln in 1919. Started a new kiln in Kagamiyama in Yamashina in Eastern Kyoto in 1920, but passed away 3 days after firing his first work in his kiln.
