August 14 2024
What is "Banko ware"? Its characteristics and appeal, as well as information on kilns and pottery markets.
The origins and historical evolution of Banko ware
Banko ware was created during the Genbun era (1736-1740) in the middle of the Edo period by Nunami Rōzan of the Nunami family, a wealthy merchant who ran a ceramics wholesaler in Kuwana, who developed a taste for tea. It all began when we opened a Banko-yaki kiln in Komukai, Asahi Town. The Nunami family ran a pottery wholesaler called ``Bankoya,'' and Tozan, who was familiar with the tea ceremony from an early age, produced elegant pieces that incorporated novel, exotic patterns and shapes. His works incorporated exotic designs, Dutch letters, and chintz patterns, and were extremely popular with Japanese intellectuals at the time.
After Yuzan's death, an antiques dealer in Kuwana named Mori Yuusetsu and his younger brother Senshu revived Banko ware and created a new, unique technique. Yusushi was particularly keen on researching sencha teapots, and devised a teapot made from a wooden mold. In addition, works using pink glaze or powdered glaze were highly praised.
Afterwards, Yamanaka Chuzaemon (1821-78) built a kiln in Yokkaichi and spread the technique of Utsutsu Banko, and Yokkaichi Banko was established as an industry in the Meiji period. During the Meiji period, semi-porcelain was successfully developed, and international demand for it increased further during the Taisho period. After the war, Yokkaichi Banko-yaki, which mainly made tea utensils, was designated as a traditional craft, focusing on the domestic market, and continues to flourish as a local industry today.
The appeal of Banko ware
The most attractive feature of Banko ware is its sturdiness and durability. Due to the characteristics of semi-porcelain, which is a combination of china clay and china clay, it is extremely hard to break and has excellent water and fire resistance. This makes it highly regarded as a durable pottery that can be used for a long time.
Another attractive feature is its highly flexible design. Without being bound by traditional shapes or techniques, many works are created with free shapes and colors. The only thing they have in common is the Banko seal; the rest is left to the creativity and skill of the maker.
Furthermore, it is important that the pottery is made without using glaze, making use of the color of the material itself. You can fully enjoy the unique texture on the surface of the work and the taste of the material.
Another appeal of Banko ware is that you can enjoy the taste of tea that changes over time through tea utensils such as teapots. The color and texture, which change over time, fits comfortably in the hands of those who use it, and is a factor that allows them to continue using it with a sense of attachment.
Characteristics of Banko ware
Banko ware is characterized by its heat resistance and versatility. Patented heat-resistant china clay contains lithium ore and can withstand a variety of heat sources, including open flames, stoves, and charcoal fires. In addition, products are created with free ideas without restrictions on shape or color, and traditional techniques and modern designs are fused. Forming methods and firing methods are diverse, and each potter creates works in their own unique style.
A representative kiln of Banko ware
Kosen Kiln
Koizumi Kiln is a Banko-yaki pottery based in Yokkaichi City, Mie Prefecture. We produce sophisticated designed vessels with a modern Japanese taste. We are particular about handcrafting and use unique glazes to create beautiful colors. We value the encounters between people, and with our warm feelings, we create pottery that brightens up your everyday dining table.
Domoto Pottery
Tsuchimoto Seisho is a Banko-yaki pottery located in Yokkaichi City, Mie Prefecture. By combining traditional techniques and modern design, we create functional vessels that you will want to hold in your hands every day. We create pottery with all our heart, hoping to make everyday moments beautiful and enjoyable.
Aigama Horiuchi Pottery Factory
Aigama Horiuchi Pottery is a Banko-yaki pottery located in Komono-cho, Mie Prefecture. While valuing the basics rooted in tradition, we aim to create products that incorporate new sensibilities. The character ``Ai'' in the name of the kiln expresses the desire to incorporate the feeling of cotton into everyday vessels. Their vessels have beautiful designs that coexist with tradition and innovation.
Modern Banko Ware
Modern Banko ware is an attractive pottery that perfectly combines tradition and innovation. Although they are based on traditional techniques, they produce a wide variety of products that are tailored to modern designs and lifestyles. It combines durability and beauty and has received high praise both domestically and internationally. We are also committed to sustainable development, including consideration for the environment and the training of young potters.
Banko ware pottery market - Yokkaichi Banko ware pottery festival
The Banko-yaki Pottery Festival is an annual event held in Yokkaichi City, Mie Prefecture, and is sponsored by an organization made up of pottery makers, wholesalers, etc. in order to spread the word about the appeal of Banko-yaki. More than 40 shops gathered at the Yokkaichi venue, selling Banko-yaki clay pots, teapots, colorful plates and bowls, etc. at great prices. These products were offered at 20% to 70% cheaper than the market price, and many people were able to pick them up and get the products they were looking for. Previously, it was held around Banko Shrine, but from 2021 it will be held at Yokkaichi Dome, and there are booths selling items at nearly half the price, making it extremely popular every year.
summary
Banko ware is slowly gaining popularity. There are many designs that are reasonably priced and easy to use. Why not try incorporating it into your everyday dining table?
Find your favorite vessel with Narrative Platform
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