Crafting Japan from Materials and Techniques: Hand Crafted Chrysanthemums

The ceramic chrysanthemum flower is one type of hand-crafted decorative element. Using a sharp-tipped bamboo tool, the shapes of the flower petals are cut out one-by-one from a lump of clay. Once the artist has a circle of petals, these are then carved in high relief. This process is repeated several times to create the chrysanthemum form which is attached to jars, plates and bottles as decoration. When carved, the individual petals stand up very sharply, but once the piece has been glazed and fired it softens to take on the appearance of a natural chrysanthemum.

During London Craft Week, Made in Japan Project and The Creation of Japan will hold a one-day crafting exhibition at the Daiwa Anglo-Japanese Foundation. The exhibition highlights the variety of Japanese materials and techniques used to create hand-crafted pieces. Taiyo Nakazato, 18th generation potter of Hirado Kosho Danemon Kiln, will demonstrate the techniques of Mikawachi ceramics, traditional porcelain with a 400 year old history. The porcelain was originally made by Korean masters brought to Japan, and originated in the Edo Period from Mikawachi, Nagasaki Prefecture.

The event is organised in a collaboration with London Craft Week.

Demonstrations at 11am, 1pm and 3pm