Presenting the 16th Generation's Unique Contemporary Works

Asahi-yaki is pottery said to have originated during the Keichō era (1596-1615). This was a time when Sen no Rikyū perfected the tea ceremony, and tea masters like Kobori Enshū were active. Kobori Enshū had deep ties with Uji, which was beginning to be known as a tea-producing region.

From the time of the first to the third generation of potters, Asahi-yaki tea ceremony utensils such as tea bowls and water jars were highly prized by feudal lords, court nobles, and tea masters. Production continued through the vicissitudes of the times and difficult periods such as wars.

Currently, the focus remains on tea ceremony utensils like tea bowls and water jars, as well as tea ware such as teapots, ho-bin (small pouring vessels), and yureishi (tea coolers). The kiln inherits the delicate textures brought about by the aged Uji clay and the flames from pine firewood.

The exhibition "Succession: Asahi-yaki 16th Generation Hōsai Matsubayashi Tea Pottery Exhibition" is being held to commemorate the succession of the 16th Hōsai Matsubayashi, who inherited this traditional name last year. Of particular note is the new work shown in the top image. Achieving this clear and beautiful blue glaze, known as 'Getsuhaku' (moon white), is said to be groundbreaking for Asahi-yaki.

Furthermore, a collaborative work with Panasonic will be exhibited at "Milan Salone," the festival of design held in Milan, Italy, from April 4, 2017.

We must keep an eye on the 16th Hōsai Matsubayashi, who creates works that incorporate contemporary essence while inheriting tradition.

Succession: Asahi-yaki 16th Generation Hōsai Matsubayashi Tea Pottery Exhibition
Period | Wednesday, June 28 - Tuesday, July 4, 2017
Hours | 10:30 - 19:30 *Last day until 17:00
Venue | Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi Main Store, 6F, Art Selection Gallery
1-4-1 Nihonbashi Muromachi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo