Modern Folk Craft ceramics
Kawai studio was founded by Takeichi Kawai, the nephew of Kanjiro Kawai, a prominent potter and key figure of Mingei movement. Pottery created here is both functional and decorative, keeping Mingei philosophy alive. Raised in Kawai family, the actual 3rd-generation Master potter Akiteru Kawai is the heir of the folk craft tradition. Usually, Kyoto pottery is produced by the division of labour, but in order to maintain the uniform style of his works, Akiteru handles all the steps of pottery making himself. Crafting a vast range of pottery from tea bowls to tableware and flower vases, he is passing down the heritage of Japanese folk craft to the future generations.

The inherited techniques of Kyoto-style pottery
Shunzan-gama is a third-generation pottery maker located in Sennyu-ji temple area which has long been abundant in kilns. The studio has inherited the distinguishing style of Ogata Kenzan (1663-1743), a potter active in the middle of the Edo period. The works of Shunzan-gama are well known for their characteristic flower designs completely covering the surface which still preserves the tenderness of soft clay. The studio creates the earthenware adapted to the modern lifestyle, mastering the colorful painting and openwork carving techniques of Kyoto-style pottery cultivated through its 100-year-old history.

Uniqueness of subtle green glaze
UNRAKU-gama kiln holds a special place in the rich Kyo-yaki / Kiyomizu-yaki pottery tradition. Kyoto-style earthenware produced here is well-known for its original traditional patterns depicting the beauty of nature, meticulously painted over smooth surface. Slightly greenish aomatto glaze has become the most representative feature of UNRAKU-gama production. Skillful potter pays attention to the conditions of firing, which may eventually bring out the whiteness or crystallization of the glaze. This innovative kiln was the first in the national ceramics industry to introduce the practice of firing in an electric kiln, making a huge contribution to the world of Japanese pottery tradition.