To mark or not to mark

I got my first maker's mark just before opening this shop, a well meaning (and much appreciated) gift.

Resplendent with a thick brass handle - itself a work of great craftsmanship. For years I'd pushed back against marking my work, rejecting all the arguments for taking ownership of my craft. I just hadn't been that bothered, I couldn't see the need. Initially I put my reluctance to brand my pots down to being bashful, under confident about my pottery.Yet as I sold a few pieces and my confidence grew.....I still wasn't all that bothered.

Even before I knew anything about Mingei it appears I was already in possession of the sensibilities and discernment that make the movement so appealing. The Mingei Movement came about during the 1920's in Japan, a philosophy that values the beauty of handmade, everyday objects created by anonymous craftspeople.

The movement was lead by the thinking of philosopher Yanagi Soetsu, and included the potters; Hamada Shoji, Kawai Kanjiro and Bernard Leach. Whilst living in Korea, Yanagi was taken by the timeless beauty of the Yi Dynasty pottery, simple, rustic and completely taken for granted. With fresh eyes Yanagi considered it the most beautiful of man made objects.

Mingei translates as 'art of the people'. Yanagi's theoretical and aesthetic suggestion that beauty was to be found in everyday, utilitarian objects made by nameless, unknown craftsman. As opposed to higher forms of art created by named artists. This appreciation of the anonymous maker was key to the entire philosophy - recognising the inherent beauty in the work of uncredited artisans. Contrasting with the art world's focus (obsession) with individual makers. Mingei art should be inexpensive, simple and practical in design, with a strong connection to local traditions.

The 'honourable insignificance' of the unknown craftsman I continue to strongly align with. However in this world of unreconcilable contradictions I have to admit to getting a certain pleasure from marking my pots with my beautiful brass stamp.