Origins & Early Life

Ogata Kenzan (尾形 乾山; 1663–1743), originally Ogata Shinsei (尾形 深省), was an Edo period Japanese potter, painter, and calligrapher. He was also known by the pseudonyms Shisui, Shōkosai, Shuseidō, Tōin, and Shinshō. He is associated with Kyō ware and Kiyomizu ware. Ogata Kenzan was the third son born into a rich kimono merchant family in Kyoto.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

The family's shop, the Kariganeya, was patronized by Oeyo, the wife of Tokugawa Hidetada, and Tokugawa Masako. His father was Ogata Sōken (1621–1687), a calligrapher and patron of Noh. His older brother was the painter Ogata Kōrin (1658–1716). Following his father's death, the eldest of the Ogata brothers took over the Kariganeya, allowing Kenzan and Kōrin to enjoy their inheritance and pursue pottery and painting. From a young age, Ogata received lessons in pottery from Koho and Rakuichi, grandchildren of Hon'ami Kōetsu.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

In 1689, Ogata established Shuseidō hall south of Ninna-ji. Ogata studied with the potter Nonomura Ninsei whose Omuru kiln was located at the front gate of Ninna-ji. In 1699, Kugyō Nijō Tsunahira provided Ogata with a mountain villa in Ukyō-ku, Kyoto where Kenzan established his own kiln. In 1731, Kenzan was invited...

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