Mashimizu Zoroku I – Kyoto Potter and Master of Classical Revival
Mashimizu Zoroku I was born in 1822 into the renowned Kiyomizu family of Kyoto. His childhood name was Tasaburō (or Tazaburō). At the age of 23, he established his own kiln in Nishiochō, Gojōzaka, Kyoto, and began using the name Zoroku. He later relocated his kiln to Yawata-Mae-no-chō, also in the Gojōzaka area.
Zoroku gained distinction when he was commissioned to produce oniwayaki (garden ware) for Imperial Prince Takamichi, the high priest of Myōhō-in Temple. In recognition of his work, he was granted the character "真" (ma or shin, meaning "true"), and thereafter changed his family name from Kiyomizu to Mashimizu.
In 1868 (Meiji 1), he created works for international exhibitions. Zoroku was deeply inspired by classical pottery styles, drawing influence from Korean ceramics, old Seto ware, Iga ware, and Karatsu ware, which he skillfully incorporated into his own creations.
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