Tracing the life and footsteps of Ogata Kenzan

Hello, everyone. I’m Masatoshi Yokoyama, owner of KOTOPOTTER.

Ceramic artisan Ogata Kenzan laid the foundation for Japan’s modern pottery traditions. Born in Kyoto and passing in Edo, traces of his life still dot the city.

In this journey, let’s revisit Kyoto’s historic sites to reflect on Kenzan’s life and legacy.

1. Childhood Roots: The Garinkaya Site

Kenzan was born in 1663 (Kanbun 3) as the third son of Garinkaya, a kimono merchant supplying the imperial household and shogunate in Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto.

Raised in a cultured environment alongside his father Soken and brother Korin, he was steeped in traditional Japanese arts—from Noh theater to waka poetry.

After the death of a major patron in 1678 (Enpo 6), Garinkaya’s fortunes declined. Yet the family’s legacy persisted: Korin’s artistic success and Soken’s final bequests laid the groundwork for Kenzan’s career in handmade ceramic art.

2. Zen and Ceramic Training at Nashintei

In 1689 (Genroku 2), Kenzan built the Nashintei retreat south of Ninna-ji Temple to study Zen and calligraphy.

Under the guidance of Omuro ware master Ninsei, he mastered vibrant overglaze techniques and tea ware forms—knowledge he detailed in his ceramics manual Tokoyo Hitsuyo.

This blend of Zen-inspired calm and technical mastery defines many of his tea bowls and incense containers.

3. Creative Origins at Narutaki Kiln

In 1694 (Genroku 7), Kenzan established his own kiln in Narutaki Izumidani, surrounded by tranquil countryside.

Here, he produced tea bowls, water jars, and incense holders showcasing bold color and innovative Rimpa-inspired designs co-created with his brother Korin.

4. The Mature Years in Downtown Kyoto

By 1712 (Shotoku 2), Kenzan closed Narutaki and moved to Nijo, using rented kilns around Sanjo-Awata and Gojosaka.

Expanding beyond tea ware, he crafted decorative ceramics and practical tableware that solidified his reputation across Kyoto’s cultural circles.

5. Edo Period and Final Chapter

In 1731 (Kyōho 16), Kenzan accompanied Prince Gongaku of Ninna-ji to Edo, bringing Kyoto’s traditional ceramic techniques to Japan’s shogunate capital.

Though specific workshop locations in Edo remain unknown, his late-period works reflect the fusion of Edo urban taste with his Kyoto craftsmanship.

6. Resting Place: Izumi Myoin

Ogata Kenzan passed away in Edo in 1743 (Kanpō 3) at age 81. His grave at Izumi Myoin in Kyoto, alongside his brother Korin, marks the end of a life defined by dedication to traditional handmade pottery.

Kenzan’s death poem captures his reflective spirit:
“When both joys and sorrows fade away,
Only fleeting dreams remain of every day”

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