Hosai Matsubayashi

Asahiyaki

Ceramicist

©ASAHIYAKI

Tea over time

Hosai is the 16th generation of ceramicists
He is deeply connected to the philosophy of tea ceremony
The dappled patterns reminiscent of deer’s spots characterise his work

Hosai Matsubayashi works for Asahiyaki, a ceramic art and atelier that is over 400-year-old and based in Kyoto prefecture. This has been the historic centre of the Japanese tea ceremony culture since the 16th century. The kiln, established by the first generation master Tosaku, was named “Asahi”. Evoking self-awareness, appreciation for nature and a spiritual connection between those sharing the moment are the essence of this ritual. Honouring Enshu’s aesthetic philosophy of "Kirei-sabi" (beauty and simplicity), Hosai continues the lineage of Asahiyaki. Compared to his predecessors, Hosai's ceramics are made with gentle colours and contemporary features that continue innovating tradition.

Where

Interview

©ASAHIYAKI

©ASAHIYAKI

What training did you have to become a ceramicist?: Asahiyaki ceramics has been in my family for over 400 years, I am the 16th Asahiyaki kiln master. Before following the ancestral path to become an Asahiyaki ceramicist, I left Kyoto for a job unrelated to the family business. That detour only served to deepen my love for pottery.
What specialist skills have you acquired?: Techniques are as wide ranging as digging the clay, using a potter's wheel, making the glaze and firing the kiln. Firing in a climbing kiln or a wood-fired kiln is a skill that requires a lot of experience, and the knowledge that we cultivated over generations.
What kind of materials do you prefer to use?: My work is made with Uji soil passed down by my ancestors, aged for more than 50 years. This understanding of my roots allows me to try out drastic innovations to carry on the tradition. We always experiment with new materials, as spices, but only continue to use them if they fit our style.
What do you consider the essential properties of a tea bowl?: I believe craft will maximise the expression of humanity, connect people and enrich lives. For me, a good tea bowl is one that has the depth and capacity to hold people’s thoughts and feelings. Such a vessel will be cherished for a long time and be passed down from generation to generation and continue to enrich people's hearts.

Hosai Matsubayashi is an expert artisan: he began his career in 2001