Masterful Craftsmanship and Radiant Color
One-of-a-Kind Elegance: Shisai Kamon
Based in the Kiyomizu Pottery Complex in Yamashina, Kyoto, third-generation potter Tōraku Morisato has been creating handmade ceramics for over 40 years.
Born into a family of potters, he naturally followed in their footsteps. In 1996, he inherited the Tōraku Kiln, continuing his craft under the name “Third-generation Tōraku.”
Today, his studio remains lively and welcoming, with younger artisans working alongside him in a warm and collaborative atmosphere.
Honoring Tradition While Embracing Innovation
At Tōraku Kiln, traditional Japanese pottery techniques are valued and preserved, while also being reimagined for the modern home.
A prime example is the use of Mishima-de—a time-honored technique in which floral patterns are pressed into the clay surface. This served as the foundation for Tōraku’s signature Shisai Kamon series.
The Grace and Brilliance of Purple
The Shisai Kamon series features elegant purple gradients adorned with gold detailing—creating a regal, almost exotic presence.
Floral patterns delicately arranged across the surface offer a harmonious balance of color and design, capturing the eye and elevating the everyday dining experience.
Both the forms and motifs are crafted with great care, designed to bring joy to those who use and admire them.
“The texture in your hands and how easy it is to use—that’s just as important as the appearance,” says Tōraku. This philosophy is deeply embedded in every detail of his handmade ceramic work.
Passing a Unique Vision to the Next Generation
Tōraku continues to evolve the Shisai Kamon aesthetic while exploring new creative expressions.
His pottery doesn’t just adorn your table—it brings to life the quiet dedication of his studio and the deep legacy of traditional handmade Kyoto pottery.
Artist Biography: Hidewo Morisato (Third-generation Tōraku)
- Born in Kyoto, 1959
- 1977 – Graduated from Hiyoshigaoka High School (Japanese painting course)
- 1981 – Graduated from Kyoto Prefectural Technical School of Ceramics
- Studied under Gyokudō Tezuka
- Began creating pottery under the second-generation Tōraku
- Joined “Bidei-juku” glaze research group led by Dr. Tokuji Yamamoto (Ph.D. in Engineering)
- 1996 – Inherited the name “Third-generation Tōraku”
- Certified as a Traditional Craftsman in Kyo-ware and Kiyomizu-ware
- Awarded the Chairman’s Prize by the Japan Chamber of Commerce at the National Traditional Crafts Exhibition
- Held solo exhibitions nationwide, including at Nihombashi Takashimaya
KOTOPOTTER Owner
Masatoshi Yokoyama
With over 10 years of experience in traditional Japanese crafts, especially Kyoto’s Kyo-ware and Kiyomizu-ware, I curate ceramic pieces that honor both beauty and tradition.
Collaborating with kilns and artists in Kyoto, I strive to find new ways to share the artistry of handmade pottery with the world.
In 2024, I launched KOTOPOTTER—an online shop dedicated to Japan’s traditional ceramics.