Gained mastery of Madara Karatsu from his study of old ware.

Mr. Hamamoto built his kiln and studio in the foothills of Kishidake where old kiln ruins dot the landscape. After graduating high school and working for a company, Mr. Hamamoto became captivated by Karatsu ware and began his pottery apprenticeship. After apprenticing for 13 years at Enichigama and Osugisarayagama, he opened his own kiln and studio. He built an old style split bamboo climbing kiln. Because the flame travels quickly in this type of kiln, it is possible to achieve surfaces similar to early Karatsu ware.

Mr. Hamamoto conducted repeated tests with rice straw ash glaze on the rough local clay, and his unique Madara Karatsu was born.

Introducing Karatsu ware as a humble craftsman

Mr. Hamamoto grows a rare, old variety of rice just to produce his rice straw ash. He oversees all aspects of his pottery personally, and customers gather for his kiln openings, eager to purchase his newest work.

Though he is at the forefront of modern Karatsu ware, he insists he is not a ceramic artist, but rather a craftsman. Among other things, he makes tea ware, sake ware, and tableware. His work can be purchased at his shows or his studio, but please call ahead to visit the studio.