Kagami Shūkai established his kiln near the historic Nagata Kiln No. 1 in Ena, a site rich in high-purity clay and ceramic history. His discovery of local clays also contributed to the unearthing of ancient kiln remains, enhancing regional ceramic heritage.
Specializing in Shino and Ki-Seto, Kagami uses feldspar glaze for Shino and a custom wood-ash glaze for Ki-Seto, made from burnt chestnut bark and local materials. His Ki-Seto pieces are known for their soft textures, natural scorch marks, and delicate blue hues, blending tradition with the bold spirit of Oribe.
Using a traditional anagama kiln, he fires Shino in reduction and Ki-Seto in oxidation, pursuing a unique, expressive ceramic style rooted in deep historical knowledge.
Reviving the Forgotten Spirit of Kizeto — Shuukai Kagami’s Modern Interpretation Ceramic artist Shuukai Kagami, based in his hometown of Nagashima in Ena City, Gifu, seeks to “restore a missing page in the history of Momoyama ceramics.” His kiln stands near the ancient Nagata No.1 kiln site, once excavated by Fujio Koyama, in a region known for exceptionally pure clay.
Kagami specializes in Shino and Kizeto ware. He crafts his glazes using local materials—feldspar for Shino, and a custom ash glaze for Kizeto made from burned chestnut bark, clay, and sand. These pieces are fired in a traditional ana-gama (tunnel kiln), where he explores both reduction and oxidation atmospheres.
Years ago, Kagami was visited by ceramic master Kato Tokuro, who expressed interest in his Kizeto work. Their exchange left a lasting impression, and Tokuro continued to visit Kagami's kiln regularly.
Unlike the playful designs of Shino and Oribe, traditional Kizeto is restrained, often symmetrical and functional. Kagami saw this as a creative gap. His response has been to bring expressive depth to Kizeto through bold composition, flowing glazes, and subtle charred textures—infusing the form with newfound vitality.
Through his innovative approach, Kagami challenges the notion that Kizeto lacked the spirit of its Momoyama counterparts. His work quietly bridges the past and present, offering a personal yet historical interpretation of Mino ware.
〒500-8347 岐阜県岐阜市松原町20番地松原マンション1階 (店舗前の駐車場をご利用ください) TEL 058-337-9444 TEL 0120-772-316 1F, Matsubara Mansion, 20 Matsubara Town, Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture, 500-8347 Japan