Fukagawa-Seiji Kiln and Museum
Since Fukagawa Chūji (1871–1934) founded Fukagawa-Seiji in 1894, the kiln’s workshops and factory remain mostly unchanged. Chūji traveled to Europe to study the techniques used by Western porcelain makers such as the famed British manufacturer Wedgwood and the Meissen potteries in Germany.
Given its long history of foreign exports and the location of Sasebo Naval Base nearby, the company has hosted many ambassadors and naval officers since the end of the 1800s. In the receiving room for special guests, commemorative pieces of pottery decorated by these dignitaries during their visits are on display.
Fukagawa-Seiji was appointed an official purveyor of porcelain tableware to the Japanese Imperial Household in 1910. In the company’s museum on the second floor of their historic showroom, a selection of dining settings identical to those used in important imperial celebrations, including weddings and births, as well as state banquets and daily-use tableware, may be viewed on request. Many of the specific decorations used on these pieces, such as flowers and animals, have specific meanings to the imperial family.
The Fukagawa-Seiji company logo also uses symbolism to express Chūji’s aspirations for the company. Although different marks have been used for various purposes over the years, the logo has historically featured Mt. Fuji and a river. The mountain is one of the most famous symbols of Japan, and the river signifies the flow of trade.
