Mashiko-yaki

Mashiko-yaki. A modern pottery type made in Mashiko village, Tochigi prefecture. The Mashiko kiln was started around 1853 by Ootsuka Keisaburo for making practical vessels. Hamada Shoji (1894-1978) lived there from the 1920s and led the revival of Mashiko-yaki in the folk-art movement. The town is also associated with the British potter Bernard Leach (1887-1979). The distinctive folkish appearance and understated simplicity of Mashiko-yaki make it an appealing tableware. In addition to wheelthrown articles, a slip trailing method creates the trademark linear designs of Mashiko-yaki. Traditional Mashiko-yaki consists of brown works fired in firewood kilns and simple pots decorated with vermilion paint. Modern Mashiko-yaki is based on the traditional style but is more daring and creative. History of changes can be seen through the beautiful pieces.