Masahiro TakehanaMasahiro Takehana

Build your own kiln

Masahiro Takehana's kiln in Namise, Itsuki-cho, Karatsu City, is handmade deep in the mountains, contrary to its urban impression. He moved here from Tokyo and runs his own workshop and carpentry, giving the place a truly hermit-like atmosphere.

Unique firing method and carefully selected white porcelain

His kiln is a climbing kiln, and as his main works are white porcelain, his works are fired in a wood-fired kiln. Normally, wood-fired kilns are risky, but Mr. Yamamoto deliberately uses firewood, focusing on the interesting and rich flavor of the kiln. In a climbing kiln, firewood must be added continuously until the ware is fired, which he does by himself. Karatsu ware is valued for its changes and texture, and the changes in the white porcelain add to the charm of his works.

Masahiro Takehana's pottery, where technique and dedication intersect

He not only uses his own firing method, but also incorporates the technique of using a potter's wheel for sculpting. As a result, his works are beautiful and interesting, and have a different appeal to mechanical works. His works are dotted with small details, and techniques from the Joseon Dynasty of Korea can also be seen. His works are reasonably priced, but you can feel his strong commitment, and they are supported by many people.