Changes in the Heart Revealed by Pottery Functional Beauty Residing in Yayoi Pottery

Earthenware reveals changes in the heart — the functional beauty of Yayoi earthenware

If Jomon pottery is a "form of fire and prayer,"
Yayoi pottery represents "rice and lifestyle."
Although the form may change, the hearts of the people who reside there continue to live quietly.

What is Yayoi pottery?

Yayoi pottery appeared around the 4th century BC and developed alongside agricultural culture.
Compared to Jomon pottery, it is thinner, smoother, and features a design that emphasizes functionality.

• Uses: Closely related to daily life and agriculture, such as storing rice, cooking rice, and performing rituals.
• Shape: Rational shapes suited to the intended use, such as pots, jars, and high-top dishes.
• Decoration: Bold patterns like those of the Jomon period are becoming less common, with more modest, geometric lines prevalent.

Spirituality resides in the transformation of form

If Jomon pottery represents "communion with nature,"
Yayoi pottery speaks of "harmony with the community."

• Jomon: Flame shapes, spirals, dynamic forms → dialogue between the individual and nature • Yayoi: Straight lines, curved surfaces, static forms → symbol of society and order

The shape of earthenware is a mirror that reflects the spirit of the times.
Yayoi pottery is evidence of people who found beauty in everyday life.

A poetic interpretation of Yayoi pottery

Yayoi pottery has a tranquil quality, as if permeated with the scent of rice.
It is a mark of hands praying for a fertile harvest, and also a memory of the vessel that protected the family.

From a vessel that holds fire to a vessel that holds rice.
The shape of the soil changes from a form of prayer to a form of life.

Editor's Note: Questions to Readers

You may find "beauty like Yayoi pottery" in your own life.
It could be the feel of a well-used vessel,
It could be the steam from rice cooked for someone.