SUWA Sozan II 諏訪蘇山二代 1890-1977

Suwa Sozan II (1890-1977) was born in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture. She succeeded to the name of Suwa Sozan II in 1922 after the death of Suwa Sozan I. She is the niece of Suwa Suzan I. Her name is Torako. Second daughter of the younger brother of Suzan I. She was adopted by Suzan I at an early age. Became the adopted daughter of Sozan I at an early age and learned pottery making under the guidance of the first generation. In 1924, she exhibited "Sei Yeiji Hon-Shiki Vase"青影瓷尊式花瓶 at the 65th Art Exhibition and won the Bronze Prize. Thereafter, he exhibited his works at the Kyoto City Crafts Exhibition, the Gojokai Exhibition, and other exhibitions, receiving numerous awards. She passed away in 1977.

Suwa II was from a line of celadon potters, beginning from her father. She was one of the few female potters working in celadon of her time. Suwa Sozan I (1852-1922) was born in Kutani country, present day Ishikawa prefecture, where he initially studied before moving to Tokyo in 1875. Over the next 25 years he would gravitate between Tokyo and Kanazawa, working at various kilns and research facilities. He again relocated, this time to Kyoto in 1900 to manage the Kinkozan Studio. His name became synonymous with celadon and refined porcelain. He was succeeded by his adopted daughter, Suwa Sozan II upon his death. He is held in the Kyoto National Museum among many others. Sozan Torako was born in Kanazawa in 1890, and was soon adopted by her uncle, Suwa Sozan I. Her ceramics resemble those of Sozan I, but are considered to be more graceful and feminine. Torako assumed the family name upon her uncles death in 1922. She is held in the collection of the Imperial Household Agency among others.