How Long Will This Miraculous White Endure? The Blessings and Looming Crisis of Amakusa Porcelain Stone, the Lifeline of Hasami Ware

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#Illustrated Dictionary of Japanese Craft

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Recently, I had the chance to speak with an artisan who has been crafting pottery in the Hasami region for four decades. When I asked him about glazes, he replied calmly, yet with the inquisitive eyes of a true seeker: "I've been at this for 40 years, and there's still so much more that I don't understand."

His words moved me, revealing the immeasurable depth of 'materials'—the very core of craftsmanship—and the unwavering dedication of an artisan who confronts this reality head-on. Behind every single piece of pottery lies a long, unending conversation with its raw materials. In this article, we'll dive into the material that serves as the very lifeline of Hasami ware—specifically, 'Amakusa porcelain stone'—to explore the blessings it provides and the challenges we must face for the future.

Amakusa Porcelain Stone: The Lifeline That Creates a Miraculous White

When discussing the quality and beauty of Hasami ware, it's impossible to overlook its primary raw material: 'Amakusa porcelain stone' from Kumamoto Prefecture. This stone is a vital resource, making up roughly 80% of all porcelain stone produced in Japan.

The most remarkable feature of Amakusa porcelain stone is its high purity and extremely low iron content, which is a common impurity. As a result, when fired at high temperatures of around 1300°C, it yields a pure, untainted white porcelain. This translucent whiteness creates the perfect canvas, brilliantly accentuating the colors of glazes and painted decorations.

Moreover, porcelain made from Amakusa stone is exceptionally hard and durable, even when crafted into thin pieces. With virtually no water absorption, it resists stains and is practical enough for modern lifestyles, being both microwave and dishwasher safe. Furthermore, its unique ability to be used as a standalone raw material for porcelain—without needing to be mixed with other clays—is a massive advantage for mass production, where consistent quality is essential. The widespread appeal of Hasami ware as "durable, user-friendly, and affordable everyday tableware" is profoundly linked to the blessings of this exceptional material.