HÀ NỘI — One of the most renowned methods of producing ceramics in Japan, yakishime, is showcased at an exhibition launched yesterday at the Việt Nam Museum of Fine Arts in Hà Nội.

Organised by the Japan Foundation Centre for Cultural Exchange in Việt Nam in collaboration with the Museum of Fine Arts, the Yakishime – Earth Metamorphosis exhibition focuses on the yakishime ceramic technique, in which unglazed wares are fired at extremely high temperatures of 1,200-1,300˚C.

Visitors contemplate yakishime objects at the exhibition. — VNS Photos Thúy Hằng

The high-firing produces vitrification, or glassiness, and a rough, earthy surface punctuated with patches of brilliant sheen and colour. It makes the results unpredictable, and the challenge facing the ceramist is to retain control over the delicate transformations in the clay.

The process, which dates back to the 4th or 5th century, is one of the most basic and primitive means of producing ceramics and has developed in distinctive directions in Japan.

Yakishime utensils used in Japanese tea ceremonies.

According to the director of the Japan Foundation Centre for Cultural Exchange in Việt Nam, Katsuma Doi, the exhibition examines yakishime as an element of traditional Japanese culture from its earliest origins to contemporary works.

More than 80 yakishime objects, including functional pieces made for the Japanese tea ceremony, a major influence on the development of Japanese traditional culture, and tableware that have become an essential part of everyday life in Japan, are on display at the exhibition.

In addition, a wide range of decorative objects created by Japanese contemporary ceramic artists working in yakishime, also has been shown to visitors.

‘Shukusuizima – The Blessing Fire Island’ is one of the yakishime contemporary artworks displayed at the exhibition.

“We hope that, through this yakishime pottery exhibition, visitors can get to know about the depth and diversity of Japanese culture and at the same time to gain insight into its creativity,” he said.

The Yakishime – Earth Metamorphosis exhibition, which is an activity to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the diplomatic relation between Japan and Việt Nam, takes place at the Việt Nam Museum of Fine Arts, 66 Nguyễn Thái Học Street, Hà Nội until April 20.

After Hà Nội, the exhibition will travel to Huế. — VNS