Hirotaka Umehara (梅原 廣隆) — Gyokko (玉光)
Born in 1946, Hirotaka Umehara is an accomplished Tokoname ceramic craftsperson and the second-generation successor of Gyokko Tōen (玉光陶園), a family pottery workshop in Aichi Prefecture. Recognized as a Traditional Craftsperson in ceramic forming, he is especially associated with kyusu teapots and Japanese tea ware.
Three Generations of Tokoname Craftsmanship
Gyokko Tōen was founded by Umehara's father, Harutaka Umehara, and Hirotaka succeeded to the second generation in 1988. The workshop is now led by third-generation successor Yukitaka Umehara, continuing a family tradition devoted to finely crafted Tokoname ceramics.
The Art of the Kyusu
Gyokko tea ware is distinguished by expressive clay surfaces, thoughtful proportions, and distinctive decorative finishes. The workshop produces traditional red-clay and black-clay teapots as well as pieces combining Tokoname forms with colorful painted decoration.
Explore Hirotaka Umehara and Gyokko Tōen
This collection features teapots attributed to Hirotaka Umehara alongside selected creations from his family workshop, Gyokko Tōen. Together they offer a view of the craftsmanship and creative variety of the Gyokko tradition.
