Yoshidaya Style

Introduction to the Yoshidaya kiln

The Yoshidaya style of Kutani ware originated at the Yoshidaya kiln, which was established in 1824. This style is distinguished by its departure from the Ko-Kutani style, particularly by the absence of red in its palette.

Features of the Yoshidaya style

The Yoshidaya style uses a unique combination of four colors: blue (green), yellow, purple, and navy blue. These colors are applied throughout the pottery, creating a unique elegance and style.

Artistic Techniques

The style is known for its delicate and rapid brushwork, which contributes to a cool and refreshing aesthetic. This approach enhances the beauty of the vitreous glaze, a hallmark of Yoshidaya's unique creations. The output of the kiln reflects a concerted effort to revive the essence of Ko-Kutani, driven by Yoshidaya Den'emon's cultural passion and diverse interests.

Historical significance

The Yoshidaya kiln played a pivotal role in the revival of Kutani ware. Under the leadership of Den'emon, the fourth generation of the Toyoda family, the kiln undertook the revival of Kutani ware with great enthusiasm. Despite moving to Yamashiro village in 1826 due to lack of space, the products of the Yoshidaya kiln continued to be celebrated under the Kutani name, contributing greatly to the revival of the tradition.