The Japanese Pottery Handbook

By Kanji Sodeoka and Penny Simpson

Everyone interested in pottery and crafts will find this practical guide a valuable addition to both bookshelf and workshop. Penny Simpson, an English potter living in Japan, and Kanji Sodeoka, her Japanese colleague, have compiled a step-by-step manual of the way pots are made in Japan, their forms, and their decorations. The authors give a thorough account of both traditional and modern techniques and also describe in detail tools, materials, glazes, and the setup of workshops and kilns. Lucy Kitto's lettering and sprightly drawings infuse each page with life and clarity.

Pottery terms and expressions are listed with their Japanese equivalents, making it possible for the Western potter to arrive at a more intimate understanding of Japanese pottery and, when necessary, to communicate with Japanese potters in their own language. A godsend to potters, students, and collectors, this book will be especially welcome to the growing number of potters who come into direct contact with their Japanese counterparts either at home or in Japan.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0870113739
• ISBN13: 9780870113734
• Release Date: September 1979
• Publisher: Kodansha USA
• Length: 120 Pages
• Weight: 0.92 lbs.
• Dimensions: 10.4" x 0.3" x 7.1"

Customer Reviews

This book is an essential for all potters.

The best , most compete and charming 'how-to' book there is. Clear and direct explanations backed up with charming hand drawn images. The first edition is a wonder and the second edition even a bigger wonder. I recommend it to all my students from first time beginners to professional colleges to pottery teachers. And reasonably priced.

The Jananese Pottery Handbook

I teach pottery and always have at least one Jananese student in my class. (Some times they speak very little English) This is the most basic pottery book. There are no color photos but what wonderful step by step instructional sketches, the sheer number of forms and different designs is truly Awesome. This book is written both in English and in Japanese. I can't tell you how much this book has help bridge the language barrier (I speak Zero Japanese). My students both Japanese and American love the book. Worth every penny.

great deal

This is an excellent book for the price! Simple and straight forward, it's a great learning tool and gives you some good basic info.

English/ Japanese terminology

A very basic handbook if you are looking for pottery techniques, but invaluable for the English/ Japanese translations and terminology in hiragana, katakana and kanji for the Western potter who travels to Japan. Not many books around that gives one access to this terminology to enable one to discuss ceramics with the Japanese potter.The terminology regarding forms, descriptions, glazes, underglazes, etc are exellent, with helpfull maps on kiln sites and the different wares found in the different regions of Japan.

The Japanese Pottery Handbook

This informative and delightful book is a must for any potter. With charming and clear illustrations the authors provide information on tools, workshops, forming, decorations, kilns, etc. Even common problems are illustrated! Towards the end of the book, drawings of various forms will prove a valuable resource to many a potter. This book has become a constant reference in my own studio. Please note that two languages are used in the book, Japanese and English, accenting the visual delight of this well designed book.