Being born into a traditional Japanese artistic family means inheriting more than just a craft—it includes a family name, artistic style, tools, property, clientele, and a deep-rooted legacy. The Takatori lineage dates back over 400 years and began when Korean potter Hachizo was brought to Japan by warlord Kuroda Nagamasa to produce ceramics for the powerful Kuroda domain. Through generations, the Takatori potters weathered political turmoil and shifts in patronage, evolving to meet the aesthetic demands of the tea ceremony elite. Today, Miraku Kamei XV balances the Takatori tradition with modernization amid economic and urban change. Andrew Maske’s book explores fifteen generations of this family of master potters, honoring their history, identity, and innovative expression.
