Traditional Crafts of TokyoTraditional Crafts of Tokyo 東京の伝統工芸品

Mino Yaki

Mino Yaki Photo

The history of Mino Yaki goes back some 1,300 years. The techniques of making a Sueki ware were introduced from Korea and then in the 10th century, an ash glaze called shirashi started to be used. This simply amounted to the glazing of the Sue ware with the glaze. It was about this time that the number of kilns increased and a production center for this ware became established. From the end of the 16th and into the 17th century, pieces reflecting the taste of tea exponents were made as the ceremonial drinking of tea became more popular. In all, there are 15 different types of Mino Yaki which have officially been designated as a Traditional Craft. Of these, Shino, Kizeto, Oribe and Setoguro have a carefully controlled coloring, while the pale color of the clay and the glaze are so well balanced. Today, they are making of various pieces of tableware, tea bowls, vases and ornaments.
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