Takuo Kato（加藤卓男）
1917 - 2005
Takuo was a leading figure in the restoration of Persian lusterware ceramics that had disappeared around the 16th to 17th centuries and also in the restoration of three-color glaze ceramics, the oldest Japanese pottery technique, developed in the Nara Period (710-794). Born into a family of pottery masters dating back to the late Edo Period (1603-1867), Takuo began studying ceramic art at a very young age under his father, Kato Kobe, the fifth heir of the grand pottery master of Mino ware.Takuo distinguished himself as a leading expert in ancient pottery restoration techniques by successfully restoring Persian lusterware in the early 1980s after some 20 years of studies. His achievements brought him numerous art awards. He was named a Living National Treasure in 1995.