Kazuwa-yaki
上神焼
The story of Kazuwa-yaki begins in Kurayoshi, Tottori Prefecture, rooted in a journey that spanned generations and regions. The kiln’s founder, originally a skilled potter from Shigaraki, honed his craft in the historic Gojo-zaka district of Kyoto before relocating to Tottori during the war. Today, third-generation master Hakuga Nakamori carries forward this lineage, preserving both the technical mastery and the creative spirit of his predecessors.
The Art of Shinsha
At the heart of Kazuwa-yaki lies the "Shinsha" (辰砂, cinnabar) glaze, a signature technique preserved since the first generation. By adding copper compounds to the glaze and firing the kiln in a reduction atmosphere—limiting the oxygen flow—the pottery achieves a breathtakingly vivid crimson. Because the brilliance of the red shifts with even the slightest change in the purity of raw materials, achieving the perfect hue requires constant micro-adjustments and the intuition of a master. This deep, resonant red is the result of decades of refined experience.
Rooted in the Local Landscape
While honoring its heritage, Kazuwa-yaki continuously pursues unique expressions that reflect the natural beauty of Tottori. A primary example is "Nashibai-yu" (Pear Ash Glaze), a distinctive finish created by transforming the pruned branches of the region’s famous pear trees into ash for the glaze. This process imparts a soft, organic texture and a warmth that is unique to this local landscape.
Alongside these glaze innovations, the studio utilizes the "Nunome" (Cloth Texture) technique, where the delicate weave of fabric is pressed directly into the clay surface to create a tactile, sophisticated aesthetic. While the local red clay was historically used for industrial items like water pipes due to its lower heat resistance, the studio has evolved its composition for modern life. By carefully blending clay types and introducing durable porcelain clay, they ensure that each piece remains both a work of art and a resilient tool for daily use.
From Tradition to the Global Stage
The soul of the studio remains the traditional "Noborigama" (climbing kiln). Fueled by red pine and fired only once a year, the kiln allows the unpredictable dance of the flames to create singular "landscapes" on each vessel—patterns that can never be replicated. To balance this heritage with modern sustainability and consistent quality, the studio also utilizes electric and gas kilns, maintaining a flexible approach to production without compromising on artistry.
The vision of Kazuwa-yaki now extends far beyond Japan. The kiln actively engages with a global audience, from expanding its reach into European markets to welcoming international travelers for immersive studio visits. Yet, this global perspective is anchored by a deep commitment to the local community. For over 30 years, the studio has hosted pottery classes for local fifth-grade students, contributing to "food education" by giving children the experience of eating from bowls they crafted with their own hands.
