Japanese pottery - Hagi ware (Hagiyaki)

Hagi ware

As with many of the major potteries in Japan, the origins of Hagi yaki can be traced back to the influx of Korean potters to Japan following military manoeuvres abroad. In 1592, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a famous warlord and important historical figure, conducted a disastrous campaign on the Korean peninsula. His efforts were not entirely in vain however as he forcibly brought back Korean craftsmen, who under the patronage of the local lord Mori Terumoto, went on to produce wares which developped into Hagi yaki as we know it today. A demand for tea ceremony goods from the moneyed classes kept the Hagi potters in business and the simple rustic shapes with a delicate transluscent white glaze found favor with tea ceremony masters, giving Hagi yaki a certain cachet and ensuring its position as one of the most prestigious potteries in Japan.

White glazed Shinogi yunomi/ Okada Senshu	Kushime yunomi/ Okada Senchu	Hagi kohiki yunomi/ Shimizu Keikou
Oni hagi yunomi/ Shibuya Deishi	Hagi kohiki yunomi/Shibuya Deishi	White glazed matcha bowl/　Shibuya Deishi
Oni hagi teapot/Shibuya Deishi	Oni hagi yuzamashi/Shibuya Deishi	Oni hagi matcha bowl/ Shibuya Deishi
Mishimatsuchi teapot/Shibuya Deishi	Mishimatsuchi yuzamashi/ Shibuya Deishi	White glazed vase/ Shibuya Deishi
Mimitsuki vase/Shimizu Keikou	Set of five cups by Shokouzaneiko kiln (also sold individually)	Slashed vase/Sakata Deika kiln
The warmth of the pinkish clay, a nubbly texture, and the contrast of the smooth glaze, makes for pieces which are both interesting to look at and a joy to hold. Staying true to is roots, Hagi yaki communicates a sense of well-being and harmony rarely found in today's frenetic world.
Care instructions for Hagi yaki Hagi yaki is made of very porous clay. As the items are used, tea deposits seep into the glaze,changing the color. Fans of Hagi yaki view this as a charming characteristic rather than a detraction. One gets the feeling that the items are adapting themselves to the owner's usage and that in time, each piece becomes even more unique and special. When you first start using Hagi yaki, you may notice an earthy smell. This comes from the clay and will disappear with use, as tea deposits are absorbed into the glaze. Because of the porous nature of the clay, the use of strong detergent is not recommended. Wash in hot water and dry with a soft cloth. Leave to dry naturally in a shady place before storing. Do not leave fluids standing in the items for any length of time as condensation may gather around the base and damage wooden counters or trays. Also, as the base tends to be rough, be careful when using on polished surfaces.

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