Mashiko-yaki (Mashiko ware)

 

What is Mashiko-yaki?

 

Mashiko-yaki is a type of Japanese pottery from the town of Mashiko in Tochigi Prefecture whose history dates back to around the end of Japan’s Edo period.  With a certain degree of thickness as well as a plump shape and tactile warmth, the plain, rustic simplicity of Mashiko-yaki is what gives this form of pottery its appeal.

The history of Mashiko-yaki

Mashiko-yaki, a form of pottery originating from the surrounding areas of the town of Mashiko in Tochigi Prefecture, boasts history dating back to the end of the Edo period of Japan.

 

This history began when Keisaburo Otsuka, a ceramist trained in Kasama-yaki (Kasama ware) from Kasama in Ibaraki Prefecture, had begun his search in the town of Mashiko for ceramic clay suitable for pottery making and had chosen that town as a site for ceramic art.

Features of Mashiko-yaki

Mashiko-yaki is characterized by a soil-like texture.

Ceramic clay available for extraction in Tochigi Prefecture invariably becomes hard and thick due to its significantly high air bubble content, thereby rendering it unsuitable for minute, detailed craftsmanship.

This is what produces the thick, plump and warm container-like texture that is the representative characteristic of Mashiko-yaki.

Another attractive feature of Mashiko-yaki is its considerably sandy quality that gives this ware its plain yet rustic sensation.

 The soil used for Mashiko-yaki also has outstanding affinity with glaze that is also made in the town of Mashiko.  Additionally, the tint produced through the use of  brown candy glaze, celadon glaze and other such materials is yet another element that imbues Mashiko-yaki with its profound, tasteful essence.