Pottery has been produced in the Mino area of Gifu prefecture since the Kamakura period (the end of the 12th century). The main names synonymous with Mino are Oribe, Shino and Kizeto.

Oribe yaki is one of the many wares produced in the prolific pottery producing areas around Seto,Aichi prefecture and Tajimi, Gifu prefecture. Easily recognisable by its distinctive green glaze, Oribe yaki has four main types; E-Oribe (patterns done with iron underglaze), Kuro-Oribe (an almost black, dark green glaze),Ao-oribe ( light green glaze) and Aka-Oribe (incised patterns covered with various glazes).
Originally favored by the tea masters of the Momoyama period (in the late 16th century), one of whom, Furuta Oribe, is said to have lent his name to the pottery.

Shino is known for its milky white glaze. It is said to be the first ware to decorate its pieces with brush-drawn designs.

The term Ki-seto(Kizeto) covers a broad area. As it's name implies (ki=yellow, seto=porcelain), Kizeto ware has a subtle earthy yellow tinge, sometimes accented with tints of green.
We can find quality tea ceremony ware as well as more accessible everyday items in the Oribe, Shino and Kizeto patterns.