About Japanese ceramics

Japan features dramatic variation in the ceramic arts. Most famous abroad are probably Imari-ware and Arita-ware, from two villages in Saga prefecture that have roughly 400 years background exporting porcelainware with a famous palette of reds, blues, and even some gold enameling. This style was prized and imitated in Europe.

More recently, less historically significant locations such as Mashiko have emerged and captured the hearts of foreign collectors, thanks in large part to the efforts of Bernard Leach and Shoji Hamada. Mashiko is also home to some of the most experimental work in Japan, made possible thanks to the area being less bound to traditions.

My personal favorite ceramic locations in Japan are Bizen, Karatsu, Hagi, and Mashiko, followed by perhaps by Mino and Shiga.