Ceramic traditions

The Japanese have one of the longest continuous ceramic cultures in the world, with the earliest ceramics dating to around 10 000 BCE. The popularity of the tea ceremony from the 15th century fostered an aesthetic appreciation of ceramics, especially imported Chinese wares, which became valued as works of art. The strong demand for ceramics resulted in a surge of creativity during the Momoyama period (1573-1615), with thousands of kilns developing their own distinct regional characteristics. High-fired stonewares were central to this tradition.

After the Japanese invasions of Korea in 1592 and 1598, a number of Korean potters were brought back to Japan. Some of these potters settled in Arita in northern Kyushu, where they discovered porcelain clay. The area became Japan's major centre of porcelain production and its products were also exported from the port of Imari.

From the early 20th century, Japanese studio ceramics have diverged in two distinct currents: on the one hand, a continuation and revival of regional ceramics, and on the other a more experimental and individualist approach, which broke free from conventional techniques and forms.