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Historical Background
Obori-soma yaki originated in the Genroku Era of the Edo period. When a warrior of the Nakaumura domain, Kyukan Hangai, discovered potter's clay in the Obori region of present-day Namie town, it marked the start of this well-celebrated tradition. Kyukan would order his servant to incorporate pottery creations for daily use.
Though word got around about the usage of pottery, its usage expanded from mere gifts to the feudal lord to popular tableware for the masses. In the Nakamura domain (modern-day Fukushima), the ceramics and porcelain were still being made as specialty products, however.
By the end of the Edo period, there were up to 100 operations going on, ranging from Hokkaido to the entire Kanto region. Craftsmen were sent to be instructed on how to reproduce the Obori-Soma yaki, so that they could bring the art to their respective regions. However, in the Meiji period, with the abolishment of domains and establishment of Prefectures, the Nakamura domain was no longer the singular hub for the production of the wares. As such, the number of operations dipped down to 30 and was further dwindled at the onset of the Second World War.
Now, approximately 25 operations remain and are committed to keeping the art of the Obori-Soma Yaki craft alive.
Characteristics
Obori-soma yaki contains 3 prominent features: the crazing (leading to unique blue cracks), the horses, and the double-layering of the pottery.
The blue cracks are caused by the difference in the shrinking rate between the enamel and the porcelain material itself. When the material is being fired in the kiln, it produces a beautiful cracking sound. The cracks occur across the surface and do not compromise the integrity of the piece.
Kumajiro Sakamoto invented the double-layering technique. The double-layering technique involves double-firing a piece in the kiln, allowing for the inner layer to isolate the hot liquid and the outer layer to keep the piece cool to the touch.
The double-layering and the blue cracks were both initiatives that Obori-soma yaki producers used to distinguish themselves in the competitive market. Both ended up being a corte part of the handicraft.
The obori-soma yaki also contains drawings of horses. These horses are painted via a technique called hashiri goma and originate from the family crest of the Soma clan. When facing left, it is meant to be a sign of good luck!
Things to Know
Japanese audio, French subtitles (auto-translated subtitles provided by Youtube)
Auto-dubbed audio in Japanese and English
Only Japanese audio available (auto-translated subtitles from Youtube)
Direct Voice from Ajani Levere
I think this craft is a beautiful demonstration of the ways that art is an essential part of culture-making. The way that the Obori-soma yaki has persisted throughout the last couple of centuries is not coincidental, but an intentional effort meant to keep the work of ancestral artisans alive. This is especially noticeable in seeing how the art form has maintained prominence even throughout regime changes.
In my research of the Obori-soma yaki, I see how the artisans are the ones evolving the art as time passes. Adding the horse crest, for instance, is a beautiful example of innovation that adds additional depth and meaning to the craft, giving it a unique identity. I also appreciate how these crafts are made by skilled artisans, in particular. For anyone who seeks to engage in Obori-soma yaki must do the necessary research and gain the proper skills to engage in it earnestly. I find that this barrier is important, at times, to preserve the sanctity of the cultural object. If anyone could engage in it at will, and without proper acknowledgement of the history and the art-making process, then I feel it would be a disservice to the history and the culture that has been built around the art form thus far.
References
Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square. (2019). Obori Soma yaki (pottery). https://kougeihin.jp/en/craft/0401/
Kogei Japan. (2025). Obori-soma ware. https://kogeijapan.com/locale/en_US/oborisomayaki/#_FEATURES
Matsunaga Kiln. (2025). Feature | Obori Soma ware. Soma-Yaki.com. https://soma-yaki.com/en/feature/
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