Kyo ceramics
Kyo pottery, another name for Kiyomizu pottery, refers to pottery that was originally produced at the foot of the famous Kiyomizu temple. However, the name is now used for all pottery produced in Kyoto. "Kyo ware/Kiyomizu ware" has been declared one of Japan's traditional crafts by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.
Its history began around 400 years ago. At that time, Kyoto was the centre of culture and the largest economic market, which meant that pottery from all over Japan came to the city. In the 16th century, the tea ceremony became very popular, and so Kyoto began to produce various teacups (rather oversized cups) and tools for the tea ceremony.
Example of a Kyo ceramic from the collection of Markus Hastenpflug (k52)