Abstract

This study delves into the adversities and significant obstacles encountered by Korean potters during the 17th century and their endeavors to surmount these challenges by enhancing the government kiln system and refining pottery production techniques, drawing insights from an analysis of historical records and artifacts. Furthermore, it investigates the adaptation and resettlement experiences of Korean potters who were abducted to Japan. As part of the restructuring of the government kiln system aimed to improve the conditions of artisans, initiatives were undertaken to secure cloth taxes. Additionally, the system of mandatory labor shifted from mandatory labor assignments to artisans choosing their employment in the government kilns. Measures were taken to broaden access to high-quality clay by expanding raw material sources. Challenges related to kiln mobility, which encumbered artisans, prompted the proposal of fixed kiln establishments. Regarding production techniques, artisans exerted significant efforts to master the adept application of iron-red pigment, known as seokganju, as a substitute for cobalt blue. This endeavor resulted in the emergence of simple yet naturally bold designs evident in the patterns of porcelain crafted in local kilns using underglaze iron. Kiln construction techniques advanced with the introduction of more sophisticated kilns, featuring inner walls and pillars to enhance firing processes. Moreover, a kiln design characterized by a widened base ascending toward the chimney in a ladder like formation, initially developed in local kilns, served as the prototype for government-operated kilns. Meanwhile, artisans who were abducted or forcibly relocated to Japan acclimated to various local environments across Kyushu.Leveraging their advanced skills compared to Japanese artisans, they focused on crafting ceramics and tea bowl ware in the Joseon style. Notably, artisans such as Yi Sampyeong played a pivotal role in Japan’s inaugural porcelain production by discovering new clay deposits. Families like the Satsuma-based Sim Sugwan clan persisted in the ceramic production across generations, establishing themselves as prominent figures in the Japanese ceramic industry. Although the 17th century presented formidable obstacles to Korean potters, they met these challenges with remarkable diligence and ingenuity, pioneering new styles and technological advancements.