Oken (Sugie Oken) – Master of Tokoname Ceramic Carving and Teapots
Oken (滃軒), also known as Sugie Oken, was born in 1881 (Meiji 14) as the third son of Sugie Shuzan I and the grandson of Sugie Jumon I, both prominent figures in the Tokoname ceramic tradition. His art name was Hōraidō Dekken.
After graduating from the Tokoname Industrial Evening School, Oken dedicated himself to the production of export ceramics, including decorative wares, sculptural pieces, and flower vases. He became a key figure in Tokoname’s ceramic carving scene, known especially for his contributions to developing ceramics for international markets.
In his later years, Oken focused on creating hand-built teapots (chahatsu or kyūsu), distinguished by their fine and intricate carvings. He also played a major role in mentoring younger generations of ceramic artists, serving as the second chairman of the Tokoname Ceramic Carving Society, where he was highly respected for his leadership and dedication to the craft.
〒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