Gato Ceramics & Japanese Food

Kohiki refers to a pottery technique that produces a distinctive warm, soft white-colored finish by applying a liquid clay (slip) to the ceramics.

Most ceramics are made by applying a glassy glaze over the base clay. However, kohiki features a three-layer structure: “clay” + “white slip” + “glaze.” White slip is applied to a darker clay body before the piece is glazed and fired. The Japanese term for the white slip finish is shiro-kesho, which can be translated as “white make-up.” This method creates pottery that is soft in appearance compared to other types of pottery.

As many other pottery techniques, kohiki has it’s roots in Korean traditional pottery. Buncheong ware was produced in 15th century Korea to achieve a white pottery without using precious white clay. Many modern potters still regard Buncheong ware as the epitome of pottery art, often prized in traditional tea ceremony.

Other notable techniques for achieving white pottery include “white porcelain” and “white glaze.”

The beauty of kohiki lies in its simplicity and the natural, uneven texture that results from the slip application. While white porcelain has even and smooth texture, kohiki ware often develops fine cracks or a slightly rough texture, which enhances the pottery’s rustic charm.

The extra layer of kohiki means that it absorbs liquid when it is used. While the slow aging is what draws so many towards kohiki ware, it has more risk of stains and smells from food. To achieve desirable aging, kohiki ware should be briefly soaked in water before use to avoid excess smells and stains from being absorbed. You might notice that dark spots appear on the surface of kohiki ware when soaked. This process is called medome, and it’s a sign that kohiki ware is breathing. Over time, kohiki pieces can develop a rich patina as they age and are used, adding to their aesthetic appeal and value.