Consider this a portal to the past. Right here stands the \u9676\u5320\u9752\u6728\u807e\u7c73\u5b85\u8e5f Stele. It marks the former residence of a remarkable artist.
Let me introduce you to \u9676\u5320\u9752\u6728\u807e\u7c73. Born in 1767, he lived until 1833. His story is etched not just on this stele, but also in Kyoto’s artistic heritage.
\u9752\u6728\u807e\u7c73 began life in a teahouse. It was called ‘Kido’ in Gion. He was known as Mokusa Sobei. Later in life, he lost his hearing. Because of this, he became known as \u807e\u7c73 which means deaf rice.
At 29, \u9752\u6728\u807e\u7c73 decided to dedicate himself to pottery. He became a student of Okuda Eisen. Along with Ninami Doko and Eiraku Hozen, he was one of the three great ceramic artists of Kyoto at the end of the Edo period.
This stele before you marks the spot. Here once stood the home of \u9752\u6728\u6728\u7c73 also known as \u807e\u7c73. The Kyoto Historical Site Society erected this stele in June 1929. This ensured that his legacy would not be forgotten.
Look closely at the stele. On the east side, you can see the inscription. It reads \u9676\u5320\u9752\u6728\u807e\u7c73\u5b85\u8e5f. On the south side, it says Kyoto Historical Site Society built this. On the west side, is written “Attached Glaku Society”. The north side bears the inscription Showa 4th year June.
The stele stands 134 cm tall. It is 20 cm wide and 19 cm deep. It is located on the east side of Kawabata-dori. This is north of Shijo.
Imagine \u9752\u6728\u807e\u7c73 walking these streets. Picture him honing his craft. He shaped clay into timeless art. This stele connects us to that history.
The city of Kyoto is known for preserving its past. Kyoto was Japan’s capital for over a thousand years. It is home to countless temples and shrines. These attract visitors from around the world. Kyoto values its heritage. \u9676\u5320\u9752\u6728\u807e\u7c73’s stele represents this commitment.
So, as you stand before this monument. Remember \u9752\u6728\u807e\u7c73. Remember his art. Remember his perseverance in the face of adversity. This stele is more than just a marker. It’s a celebration of Kyoto’s artistic soul.