Mid-Edo period (18th century)
Donated by the Homma family
Banko ware originated in the mid-Edo period when Rōzan Nunami (1718–1777), a wealthy merchant in Kuwana, Ise Province (present-day Mie Prefecture), built a kiln in Obuke Village (in present-day Asahi-chō, Mie-gun) and began making pottery using techniques inspired by Kyōto ware potters. After Rōzan’s death, Banko ware production ceased for a time, but was revived in 1832 by Kuwana potter Yūsetsu Mori (1808–1882). By the end of the Edo period, Banko ware was being produced throughout Ise Province. To distinguish it from the Banko ware produced from Yūsetsu Mori onward, Banko ware made by Rōzan Nunami is called Ko-Banko ware.