Yoshinori Hagiwara – Contemporary Mashiko Pottery
This ceramic cup is handcrafted by Mashiko-based potter Yoshinori Hagiwara, using a deeply personal and traditional process rooted in the land itself. The clay is made from raw earth collected in the embankments of his own garden, carefully refined by hand through a traditional water-levigation process.
For the glaze, Hagiwara uses iron-rich soil gathered from the same garden, creating a natural, earthy surface with subtle tonal depth. Each piece is fired in a traditional noborigama (climbing kiln), allowing flame, ash, and iron to interact organically during firing.
While the forms vary, all pieces in this release were fired together using the same materials and method, giving the works a shared atmosphere and coherence. The result is a cup that feels quiet yet powerful—rich in texture, balanced in the hand, and expressive of Mashiko’s enduring ceramic heritage.
Ideal for daily use or contemplation, this piece reflects the beauty of natural materials, honest craftsmanship, and the intimate relationship between maker, soil, and fire.
Size : φ85mm × H126mm
*Please note that slight variations in size and color may occur due to the firing process. We appreciate your understanding before making your purchase.
*To preserve the quality of this product, please avoid using in a microwave.
*To preserve the beauty of this piece, please hand wash.
*After use, please wash as soon as possible and dry thoroughly before storing.
*There might be variations in colour and texture between individual items.
Yoshinori Hagiwara – Mashiko Ceramic Artist
Yoshinori Hagiwara is a Mashiko-based ceramic artist known for his quiet, thoughtful approach to Japanese pottery. Working in the historic town of Mashiko, he creates vessels that balance traditional craftsmanship with a contemporary sensibility, resulting in works that feel both timeless and relevant to modern life.
His ceramics are characterised by subtle forms, natural glazes, and an appreciation for the textures of clay shaped by hand. Each piece is wheel-thrown and fired using traditional Mashiko techniques, allowing the material’s warmth and individuality to emerge through restrained yet expressive surfaces.
Rooted in the spirit of Mashiko-yaki and influenced by the Mingei folk-craft tradition, Hagiwara’s work emphasises functionality, calm beauty, and everyday use. His ceramics are designed to be lived with—objects that quietly enrich daily rituals while reflecting the enduring culture of Japanese studio pottery.
Mashiko-yaki (ware) is a style of Japanese pottery originating from Mashiko, a town in Tochigi Prefecture known for its rich clay and centuries of ceramic tradition. Characterized by thick, durable clay, simple yet elegant forms, and natural glazes, Mashiko-yaki is both functional and artistic, perfect for everyday tableware or collectible pieces.
Unlike ultra-delicate ceramics, Mashiko-yaki emphasizes sturdiness, warmth, and a tactile feel, reflecting the hands-on approach of the artisans. Many pieces are handmade in family-run studios, preserving traditional techniques while experimenting with contemporary designs.
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