About Masaru Ito
Masaru Ito (伊藤 勝), a master potter from the pottery town of Tokoname, Japan, carries on a legacy of craftsmanship passed down through generations in his family. Since childhood, he was surrounded by the rhythmic hum of pottery wheels and the earthy scent of clay, learning the ancient techniques of shaping, glazing, and firing pottery from his father and grandfather. While his family specialized in a variety of ceramics, Masaru found himself drawn to the unique challenge of crafting bonsai pots, seeing them as more than just vessels but as integral parts of the bonsai experience.
His bonsai pots are renowned for their elegant shapes, inspired by both traditional forms and the natural world. Masaru has a keen eye for detail, often incorporating subtle glazes that enhance the texture and color of the clay, creating a harmonious complement to the bonsai they house. He believes that a well-crafted pot should enhance the beauty of the bonsai, drawing attention to its unique character and guiding the viewer’s eye to appreciate the tree’s subtle nuances.
Beyond his craft, Masaru is a dedicated practitioner of the Japanese tea ceremony, finding a deep connection between the principles of wabi-sabi and the art of bonsai. He sees beauty in imperfection, transience, and the simplicity of natural materials, infusing these qualities into his pottery and his approach to life. Masaru’s work has earned him recognition both in Japan and internationally, but his greatest satisfaction comes from seeing his pots displayed alongside beautiful bonsai, knowing that his creations play a small but essential role in showcasing the enduring beauty of this ancient art form.