Preserving the Diversity of Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki Ceramics
Kyo-yaki is the general term for ceramics produce in Kyoto and Kiyomizu-yaki is one of the different styles. The name is said to have originated from the many kilns lining the approach to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The many various styles range from wild stoneware to delicately painted ceramics. As a wholesaler of such Kiyomizu ware, Kumagai Sou Shoten has been in business since 1935.
Mr Takayoshi Kumagai is the company's third generation successor, As a wholesaler, he plays a role similar to that of a producer. In Kyoto, the pottery industry has developed division of labour with craftsmen specializing in various roles such as clay modeling, pottery body making, painting, and gold leaf application, and they relay their work to create products. This is where wholesale dealers like Kumagai Shoten come in, planning products and allocating orders based on the appropriate style and kiln according to their expertise.
Preserving the Beauty of Ceramics Made by Hand
Over the course of history, Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki have developed various techniques to meet the needs of diverse markets.The essence of Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki lies in the handmade feeling that cannot be achieved with mass-produced goods.
In 2012, advisors from France visited the Kumagai Shoten showroom. What caught their attention was a technique called "Zinc Crystal," featuring patterns that resemble delicate flower petals.This technique involves a glaze containing a metallic component called zinc oxide, which blooms like a snow crystal with the temperature changes inside the kiln. Achieving this beautiful crystalline pattern requires very precise temperature control, making it unsuitable for mass production. The Flower Crystal design made a significant leap forward due to the collaboration with designer Kashige Miyake who introduced demitasse cups and bowls designed to be stackable. Mr. Kumagai continues to actively collaborate with designers in product development. One of the recent products is the modern incense burner "Kino Kaori" that also makes use of the flower crystallization.
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