Gankagama, located in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, is a kiln that has been cultivating the traditions of Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki since the early Meiji period.
In the quiet workshop, the sixth-generation master of the family, Ryuta Takagi, sits at the potter's wheel, and a white porcelain vessel slowly takes shape in his hands.
Each piece is carefully crafted by him, and then a painter applies blue and white porcelain or iron painting with delicate brush strokes.
Iwahanagama pottery is the result of the combined skills of multiple craftsmen.
The white porcelain vessels are elegantly decorated with pale-colored blue and white porcelain and iron painting, and when fired, the translucent whiteness and deep richness of the patterns emerge.
The painting on this porcelain inherits the traditions of Kyoto ware, but is also characterized by a design that blends naturally into modern spaces, gently adding a touch of elegance to your everyday dining table.
Additionally, as part of Ryuta Takagi's personal style, he also incorporates "Turkish blue" into some of his works, inspired by the blue seas and skies he saw during his training in Okinawa.
The clear blue color brings a sense of calm and freshness to your everyday life.
During the firing process, artisans pay close attention to even the slightest changes in temperature and time to ensure that the pottery shines at its most beautiful.
The clear whiteness of the white porcelain and the gentle contrast with the blue and white and iron paintings create an elegant appearance that is the product of Iwahanagama's technique and aesthetics.
The pottery made by Iwahanagama is made with the hope that it will be loved without pretense in everyday life.
The accumulated skills and careful handiwork of each craftsman bring small luxuries to your dining table.
Please enjoy the tranquil scenery and feel the elegance of Kyoto every time you pick up this piece.
An interview with Ryuta Takagi, the sixth generation master of Iwakagama
Ryuta Takagi is a potter who inherits the tradition of Kiyomizu ware in Higashiyama, Kyoto, and pursues his own unique aesthetic sense. After training in Okinawa, he is working on creating works that combine tradition and innovation.
read moreBrief biography of Ryuta Takagi, 6th generation of Iwagakagama
Born in Kyoto in 1998
2008: Graduated from Kyoto Prefectural Pottery Technical College, Molding Course
2009 Graduated from the same school
2010: Graduated from Kyoto City Industrial Technology Research Institute Ceramics Course, studied under Okinawa Yomitanzan ware master Yamada Shinman
2013: Studied under his father, Takagi Iwaka (5th generation)
2016: Following the death of the fifth generation Iwaka, he took over as the sixth generation Iwaka.
Awards
2018: Winner of the 40th Kyoyaki and Kiyomizuyaki Exhibition
2019: Winner of the 41st Kyoyaki and Kiyomizuyaki Exhibition
Winner of the 43rd Kyoyaki and Kiyomizuyaki Exhibition in 2021
2022 44th Kyoyaki and Kiyomizuyaki Exhibition Award Winner
2023 45th Kyoyaki and Kiyomizuyaki Exhibition Award Winner
He has exhibited at exhibitions throughout Japan, mainly in his hometown of Kyoto.