Japanese Pottery & Banko Ware
In the mid-18th century, amidst the economic shifts and social transformations in Japan, a wealthy merchant embarked on a journey that would leave a lasting mark on Japanese ceramics. This was the beginning of Banko ware, when tea-passionated Rozan Nunami set up a pottery kiln at his home in Obuke. With a vision to create pottery that would last through time.
Rozan Nunami’s ambition was more than just a personal endeavor; it was a quest to craft teaware that would be cherished by future generations. To symbolize his hope that his creations would stand the test of time, Nunami marked his pottery with the words “banko” or “banko fueki,” meaning “eternal” or “unchanging.” This inscription reflected his desire for his works to be appreciated and valued long after they were made.
The intellectuals of the day, including Rozan, were captivated by foreign cultures. Embracing this fascination, Nunami boldly infused his pottery with exotic elements. He incorporated fabric patterns and decorations featuring Dutch alphabets and rare animals such as lions, giraffes, and elephants. As time went on, Nunami’s pottery gained renown under the name Banko ware. The unique blend of traditional Japanese techniques with Nunami’s own innovations helped Banko ware to stand out. His creations were not merely functional objects but were imbued with a sense of enduring beauty and craftsmanship.
After Rozan death Banko ware nearly disappeared with him, until two brothers took an interest in it. Decades after the master death, Yusetsu and Senshu Mori established a pottery kiln in Obuke to revive Banko ware. They not only replicated Rozan's works but also introduced new techniques, creating what became known as "Yusetsu Banko." Some of their notable inventions include "Kata-banko," a teapot-making technique using wooden molds, which made production easier, and "Shoenji-yu," a bright pink glaze that was unique at the time, containing a small amount of gold.
Admiration for Banko ware grew larger and was then introduced to villages to help local economy. The people of Yokkaichi, the birthplace of Banko ware, played a vital role in its success. Their dedication to preserving traditional techniques while embracing innovative designs allowed Banko ware to evolve with changing times. This adaptability was crucial during economic downturns, such as the post-World War II era, when Japan's economy faced severe challenges. Banko ware production provided much-needed employment, sustaining local families and keeping the craft alive.
This fusion of Japanese philosophy, tradition, and Western influences created a distinctive style that resonated across cultures and continues to be celebrated today. Banko ware resistand glaze is used nowadays for teapots, tea cups, sake cups, serving bottles, vases, plates and bonsai pots.
Banko Ware is a high-quality craft that requires a lot of craftsmanship and is therefore getting increasingly rare. Among 1300 potters working to preserve the art, there are said to be only 22 government recognized Banko master craftsmen left.
Each piece carries a part of Japan's history, serving as a symbol of enduring craftsmanship and cultural identity.
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