Miwa Ryūkishō (Kyūsetsu XII/Ryōsaku)(born 1940), White and pink Hagi-glazed eared mizusashi (waterjar) with floral motif and matching cover, circa 1981, glazed stoneware, 6 x 7 3/4 x 6 1/2 in.

Branching Out: Kaneshige Family and the Bizen Tradition
Miwa Family and the Hagi Tradition
Joan B Mirviss LTD
In gallery and online, May 19-June 30, 2022

The widespread popularity and distinguished reputations that Japan’s ancient ceramic traditions enjoy today are largely indebted to a core group of mid-twentieth century artistic visionaries: among them, Kaneshige Tōyō (1896-1967) for Bizen ware and Miwa Kyūwa (1895-1981) for Hagi ware. Both men were inheritors to their highly esteemed, long-established, multi-generational family names that had been associated with excellence in their respective ceramic traditions for centuries. Together with scholar-potter Kawakita Handeishi (1878-1963), they co-founded the artistic discussion group Karahinekai in 1942, formed of artists who were dedicated to the recovery of lost techniques from the golden age of ceramics during the 16th century Momoyama period.

With a focus on teaware and vessels, they were wildly successful in their endeavors. Adapting their production, greatly expanding their styles, and influencing their brothers, sons, and grandchildren, they definitively transformed their family’s legacy from that of dutiful craftsmen to boldly modern artists. Joan B Mirviss LTD’s latest exhibition celebrates the past, present, and future of these two prominent families synonymous with excellence.

Supplementing the display of artworks in the exhibition on their website, the gallery will have videos of artist interviews available there as well.

Read more, click here