03/04/2026
Founded in 1804 in Tajimi City, Gifu Prefecture, Kobei Kiln (幸兵衛窯) has played an important role in preserving the tradition of Mino ware for over two centuries, and once served as an official supplier to Edo Castle. Now led by eighth-generation potter Kato Ryotaro (加藤亮太郎), the kiln has received international recognition for its exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to reviving ancient ceramic techniques.
Persian Blue (青釉/Aoyu, Seiyu)
The origins of blue pottery can be traced back to ancient West Asia, where copper-based glazes were already in use as early as the 3rd century BC. In Persian culture, this vivid blue—revered as the colour of the “Mother Caspian Sea”—symbolised life and held sacred significance for desert communities. Inspired by these ancient techniques, Living National Treasure Takuo Kato devoted much of his career to the development of blue glazes. This legacy was later carried forward by Kobei Kato VII, who created his own interpretation in a softer, more translucent tone.
This piece features Kobei Kiln’s signature blue glaze, Aoyu, applied in four to five layers, fired repeatedly, then finished with delicate gold detailing and fired once more. The result is a deep, lustrous surface that reflects both its historical inspiration and the meticulous craftsmanship of the present day.
