Little is known directly about his life; he is believed to have been born in the village of
Tamba, near Tachikui in
Hyogo Prefecture, near
Kobe. He is associated with
Kyō ware, often being credited as one of the key founders and influencers. He was a master craftsman who perfected the colourful painted pottery in
Kyoto. After learning the technique of making tea jars in Seto, around the
Shōhō era (1644-1648) he opened the Omuro kiln in front of the gate of Ninnaji Temple. Tea master
Kanamori Sowa (Shigechika) heaped high praise for his excellent potter's wheel technology and Kyoto-style design. In response to orders from the public and
daimyō families his ware became popular with
Japanese tea ceremony. He is also believed to have had a son, nicknamed "Ninsei II", who attempted to succeed him in his work, but did not reach the same level. == References ==