Japan's Finest Pottery – Takatoriyaki Souke

Takatoriyaki Soke is a kiln in Fukuoka with a history of more than 420 years. The current head of the family is the 13th-generation master, Takatori Hachizan, who works alongside his eldest son, Takatori Shunkei, to carry on the tradition.

The earliest works of the kiln were characterized by the beauty of imperfection, finding elegance in forms that were uneven or broken, and are known as 'Ko-Takatori' (Old Takatori). Later, during the Edo period, under the guidance of Kobori Enshū, the tea ceremony advisor to the Tokugawa shogunate, the style evolved into 'Enshū-Takatori,' a refined expression of the aesthetic of 'kirei-sabi,' or elegant simplicity.

For over 400 years, Takatoriyaki has been cherished by tea master's throughout Japan. Takatoriyaki is distinguished by its thin, delicate construction and the use of a brilliant, multicolored glaze known as 'nanairo-gusuri,' which creates complex and beautiful hues.

Kobori Enshū's philosophy, seeing beauty and vitality not in the full moon, but in the moon still on its way to fullness, is deeply embodied in each piece.

We are honored to offer a special selection of tea bowls crafted by the 13th-generation master Takatori Hachizan and his son, Takatori Shunkei, for you to experience the true charm of Takatoriyaki.