Business Details
18 Years
experience
Handcrafted Japanese Pottery in Loves Park, IL
Nanten Pottery was founded by Hironobu 'Nishi' Nishitateno, a lifelong artist whose passion for pottery began in childhood. After formal training at Kagoshima Kogyo Gijutsu Center in Japan and apprenticeship under renowned potter Eisaku Mitsuhashi, Nishi relocated to Loves Park, Illinois in 2008. Our work embodies the Japanese philosophy of simplicity and functionality, enhanced by international influences. Each piece is handcrafted using natural materials and organic glazes inspired by nature. We maintain rigorous quality standards, ensuring all pottery is food-safe, microwave/oven/dishwasher compatible, and sealed for liquid retention.With decades of experience across Japan and the United States, we combine traditional techniques with contemporary design. Our participation in prestigious exhibitions like the All Japan Tea Bowl Exhibition and recognition through awards such as the Funabashi City Annual Exhibition Arts Association Prize demonstrate our commitment to excellence. We invite customers to explore our evolving collection of unique, handcrafted ceramic works through our Etsy shop and annual open house events.
Services
Handmade Pottery
Custom Ceramic Pieces
Teapot Crafting
Bowl Production
Wedding Gift Sets
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- Award-winning potter with 20+ years of experience in Japan and the US
- Natural materials and glazes inspired by organic landscapes
- Functional art pieces compatible with modern kitchen appliances
- Recognized in prestigious exhibitions including All Japan Tea Bowl Exhibition
- Free shipping on all Etsy purchases and exclusive open house events
Services
Handmade Pottery
Each piece is meticulously handcrafted using traditional Japanese pottery techniques. We incorporate natural materials and organic glazes that reflect seasonal changes and landscapes. Our functional art maintains strict quality standards for durability and usability in modern kitchens.
Teapot Crafting
Specializing in Japanese-style teapots that balance aesthetic beauty with practical design. Our teapots feature precise spout engineering for smooth pouring and heat retention properties that enhance tea-drinking experiences through thoughtful craftsmanship.
Custom Orders
Accepting special requests for unique ceramic pieces tailored to specific needs. We collaborate directly with clients to create one-of-a-kind functional art that incorporates personal design elements while maintaining traditional pottery principles.
Wedding Gifts
Curated gift collections featuring our most popular designs, including symbolic turnip bowls that represent prosperity. Each wedding-ready set includes complementary pieces that showcase our signature style and functional elegance.
Open House Events
Annual Utsuwa Matsuri events offering studio access, direct interaction with the artist, and exclusive first access to new works. Visitors experience our creative process firsthand and enjoy cultural activities that complement our pottery practice.
People
Hironobu 'Nishi' Nishitateno
Master Potter
Award-winning potter trained in Japan, recipient of the Funabashi City Annual Exhibition Arts Association Prize. Combines traditional Japanese techniques with international influences in his handcrafted ceramic works since establishing Nanten Pottery in 2008.
Questions
What makes Nanten Pottery unique?
Our pottery combines traditional Japanese techniques with international influences, using natural materials and organic glazes inspired by landscapes.
Are your pieces food-safe and functional?
Yes, all pottery is food-safe, microwave/oven/dishwasher compatible, and sealed for liquid retention while maintaining artistic integrity.
Do you offer custom orders?
We accept special requests for unique pieces - contact us directly to discuss custom ceramic projects and commissions.
How can I purchase your pottery?
Visit our Etsy shop for online purchases or attend our annual Utsuwa Matsuri open house event in Loves Park, Illinois.
What is the significance of your 'turnip bowls'?
Our turnip bowls symbolize prosperity and are popular wedding gifts, featuring subtle vegetable-inspired designs that celebrate natural forms.