Rokuro (Potter’s Wheel): The Symbolism of Traditional Rokuro

In contemporary ceramics, techniques that emphasize decorative qualities often take center stage, while traditional methods are dismissed as 'old-fashioned.' Yet the rokuro (potter's wheel) remains essential to the core practice of ceramics, where the artist must intuitively connect with the clay, translating intent into form. Mastery of the rokuro is key to understanding the profound relationship between time and space, body and material in the art of pottery.

Transcript

1. Rokuro (Potter’s Wheel): The Symbolism of Traditional Rokuro Makoto Hatori The Japanese word 轆轤 "rokuro" and the Korean word "mulle" (물레) both refer to the potter's wheel used to shape ceramics. While the ceramic cultures of Japan and Korean Peninsula have developed in distinct contexts, there are striking similarities in the symbolic meanings attributed to rokuro and mulle, particularly regarding their spiritual aspects and harmony with nature. The Japanese word "rokuro" encapsulates the notion of harmony between nature and humanity. Crafting pottery or wooden objects necessitates working with natural materials, demanding respect for their inherent shapes and textures. Objects formed on the Rokuro represent a balance with nature and symbolize the relationship between humans and the natural world. Furthermore, as a culmination of skills and knowledge, the rokuro embodies tradition, expressing the artisan's heritage and expertise. In this way, the rokuro becomes a symbol of creativity and transformation. Its ceaseless rotation evokes the passage of time and the cycle of life. The Korean word "mulle" refers to a potter's wheel used to shape ceramics and other crafts. It is a tool used to form and give shape. Similarly, the potter's wheel symbolizes the process of transforming natural materials into works of art and crafts, and as a symbol of
2. traditional techniques, it reflects the skill and creativity of the artisan. Therefore, the word "mulle" indirectly carries cultural and spiritual symbolism. There are distinct cultural and artistic differences between Korean and Japanese potter's wheels, reflecting the unique evolution of ceramics in each region. Korean potters traditionally employed the kick wheel, a foot-operated device that provided a powerful and efficient means of shaping clay. Early Korean ceramics, especially Goryeo celadon, were significantly influenced by Buddhist aesthetics, evident in their elegant curves and soft green glazes. However, with the rise of Confucianism during the Joseon dynasty, there was a profound shift in artistic preferences, leading to a strong emphasis on white porcelain. This transition was rooted in Confucian ideals of purity, simplicity, and moral integrity, which were deeply reflected in the clean lines and restrained beauty of Joseon white porcelain. Japanese ceramics exhibit a wide variety of styles, but Korean white porcelain is characterized by its simpler and more serene beauty. In Japan, a diverse range of ceramic styles has developed, particularly centered around tea utensils such as tea bowls. Traditional Japanese pottery wheels come in two main types: kick wheels, which are rotated by the foot, and the more common hand wheels, which are closely tied to the culture of sitting on tatami mats. Even today, many traditional Japanese crafts are practiced while seated on tatami mats, and the action of hand-turning aligns with the bodily movements rooted in such traditional living habits. Just as the rotating wheel head is called a "mirror," a metaphor drawing from ancient religions, this comparison signifies introspection, the manifestation of the divine, the symbol of the sun (fire), and the wheel itself as the boundary between these realms. The pottery wheel thus serves as a conduit to the divine, evoking spiritual power.
3. Thus, the potter's wheel is deeply intertwined with the cultural life of a people, and its characteristics form an aesthetic element in conjunction with traditional crafts. In this way, the potter's wheel is recognized not merely as a tool, but as something possessing cultural and spiritual value. The act of using a potter's wheel transcends mere technique, and is akin to meditation or spiritual training, a practice that calms the mind and deepens introspection. It has dual religious origins, and its connection to Zen philosophy is evident in its emphasis on the importance of focused work with a clear mind. Furthermore, it resonates with the ancient Japanese reverence for nature deities, and the rhythmic rotation of the potter's wheel harmonizes with the rhythms of nature, allowing natural elements to be reflected in the work. By emphasizing the harmony of matter and spirit and the process of eliminating the superfluous, the deep significance of the potter's wheel in cultural and spiritual terms is highlighted. Balancing tradition and innovation remains a paramount challenge in contemporary ceramics. While the pursuit of novel forms of expression is essential, it is equally crucial to delve into and revere traditional techniques and their underlying philosophies. The potter's wheel, far more than a mere tool, serves as an indispensable learning platform for the future of ceramics, embodying a steadfast commitment to preserving time-honored practices. A rich and dynamic cultural landscape fosters the growth of exceptional art, wherein diverse perspectives converge to enrich one another. As such, ceramics, too, thrive when traditional methods are interwoven with contemporary ideas, creating a harmonious balance between the past and the present. Indeed, one cannot truly discuss ceramics without understanding the potter's wheel.
4. Rokuro (Potter’s Wheel): The Symbolism of Tradition in Makoto Hatori’s Art of Throwing a Teabowl https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQuEx-9pLyk