The first generation was Akazawa Kaho, who studied Nanga painting under Tanomura Chokunyu (the first principal of the Kyoto Prefectural School of Painting, formerly Kyoto City University of Arts). He began making a living as a ceramic painter in 1877 (Meiji 10). (Back then, it wasn’t possible for individuals to own their own kilns for pottery, as it is today.) It was said that the Icchin technique that is still used today was established around this time.

In 1921 (Taisho 14), Shuzo, the son of Akazawa Kaho, succeeded to the name of the second head and adopted the name Roseki (Akazawa Roseki II). He repeatedly won awards and had his works selected for the Nouten, Japan’s first open-call exhibition for craft arts. Furthermore, he introduced a state-of-the-art electric kiln, which was rare at the time, becoming one of the pioneers of modern individual ceramic artists.

In 1943 (Showa 18), Akazawa Roseki II was designated for technical preservation for his specialty, Kochi ware.

But that’s not the only achievement of the second master Roseki. He also invented the electric kiln before climbing kilns were banned due to smoke regulations, and with the most advanced technology at the time, he established a firing method more suitable for Kochi ware.

In 1976 (Showa 51), after Shuzo’s death, his wife Shizuo inherited Akazawa Roseki III at the age of 76. She was a pioneer female ceramic artist who, from the time Akazawa Roseki II was submitted to public exhibitions, also used the name Seiha and had a track record of winning awards. She maintained the existence of Roseki for 10 years in order to pass on Roseki IV to her grandson, Seichu. She was also a pioneer in donating works, such as Roseki II’s pieces, to Kyoto Prefecture. Her works were also acquired by the Tsuruga City Museum by a collector from Tsuruga City who had ties to her hometown of Takefu.

In 1988 (Showa 63), Akazawa Roseki IV succeded on the name of Akazawa Roseki when his grandmother, Akazawa Roseki III, retired.

In 2021 (Reiwa 3), Akazawa Roseki V was succeeded the name after following the passed away of his father, Akazawa Seichu Roseki IV.