Taroemon Nakazato is a renowned name passed down through a distinguished lineage of Karatsu-yaki potters in Karatsu, Saga Prefecture. In particular, the twelfth-generation Taroemon Nakazato (1895–1985)—who later adopted the artist name Mu’an Nakazato—made a significant contribution to the revival of modern Karatsu-yaki. Through extensive surveys of ancient kiln sites and research into historical Karatsu ware, he re-examined traditional techniques such as hand-moulding, wheel-throwing, glazing and firing, whilst establishing a refined artistic style across various categories including E-Karatsu, Mottled Karatsu and Chosun Karatsu. In 1976, he was designated a Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Properties (Living National Treasure) for ‘Karatsu-yaki’.

What one senses in his works is a generosity of spirit that does not forcefully control the workings of clay and fire, but rather embraces their natural expression as the beauty of the vessel. Even within his powerful forms, there is a calmness characteristic of tea ware, and there is profound charm to be found in the flow of the glaze, kiln changes and even the slightest distortions. To me, rather than a direct reproduction of ancient Karatsu ware, his work appears to be a form of pottery that brings the simplicity and vigour inherent in that tradition to life in the modern era. I believe its greatest charm lies in the fact that its character deepens with use, whilst its quiet presence grows ever stronger.