Matsui Kosei

Matsui Kosei was a Japanese ceramic artist celebrated for his pioneering work with neriage, a technique using layered coloured clays to create patterned surfaces within the clay body. Born in Nagano Prefecture, he studied ceramics under the glaze specialist Tamura Koichi before establishing his practice at Gessō-ji Temple in Ibaraki Prefecture. Appointed the temple’s 23rd head priest in 1957, Matsui built his own kiln on the temple grounds, where much of his ceramic development took place.

Matsui devoted his career to exploring the structural possibilities of coloured clay. Rather than applying decoration to the surface, he developed complex patterns formed directly within the clay body. Through careful cutting, layering, and turning of coloured clays, he created rhythmic geometric designs that emphasise both form and movement.

His work was widely exhibited in Japan and received numerous awards, including prizes at the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition. In 1993 he was designated a Living National Treasure for his mastery and development of neriage.