The Museum of Oriental Ceramics,Osaka

Uno Soyo I (1888-1973), born in Kyoto, Japan, was a potter who devoted himself on studying the glazes of the so-called five greatest ceramic wares of China and reproducing these wares. His father, Uno Ninmatsu I, succeeded in ceramic trading business with the United States at the end of the Meiji era (late 19th century – early 20th century). Soyo worked as an intern at the Kyoto Municipal Ceramic Testing Institution, and there he enthusiastically acquired skills of pottery production based on scientific research theories. At the beginning of the Taisho era (early twentieth century), he began to visit auctions of ceramics owned by the noble families, which were held quite often at that time. Deeply enchanted with beauty of Chinese ceramics, he vowed to himself that he would dedicate the rest of his life to study the glaze of Chinese ceramics and reproduce them with his hands. Soyo, making the best of his past achievements in the studies of glazes, began to immerse himself in experimenting glazes and reproducing works with overglaze copper-red, Jun-ware style glaze, celadon, tenmoku and so on. Changing his name from “Ninmatsu II” to “Soyo”, he devoted his energy even more on producing works in his original style and glaze, which led to the designation as an intangible cultural asset. He never lost his passion until he passed away at the age of 85.
This exhibition introduces the visitors to the enchanting world of ceramics made by Soyo I who was enthralled with classical Chinese ceramics, by showing approximately 30 works selected from a total of 87 pieces generously donated by Ms. Uno Marie.