Nishikitsuke Worker (Ceramics Manufacturing)
にしきつけこう（とうじきせいぞう）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Decorator using overglaze painting (nishikitsuke) technique to apply colored patterns or gold luster designs on ceramics.
Description
Nishikitsuke workers are artisans who draw designs and patterns on bisque-fired ceramic blanks using colored enamel pigments or gold luster liquid. First, they mix pigments based on the design and perform delicate coloring with fine brushes or special tools. After painting, they fire the pieces in electric kilns or gas kilns under appropriate temperature and atmospheric conditions to fix the paint into a glass-like state. Adjusting firing conditions and managing color development are crucial, and the finished products are used for tableware, decorative items, and crafts. While inheriting traditional techniques, the introduction of new materials and digital design technologies is also progressing.
Future Outlook
Demand for high-end ceramics markets and traditional crafts is stable both domestically and internationally, and the value of advanced handcraft decorative techniques is being reevaluated. On the other hand, there is a challenge of successor shortage, and productivity improvements through integration with digital design technologies and automation are expected.
Personality Traits
Excellent Aesthetic Sense / High Concentration / Meticulous / Patient
Work Style
Contract Employee / Dispatched Employee / Full-time Employee / Part-time / Casual / Self-employed Individual Workshop
Career Path
Apprentice Craftsman → Nishikitsuke Worker → Chief Nishikitsuke Worker → Workshop Manager → Independent / Workshop Establishment
Required Skills
Firing Condition Management / Overglaze Painting Technique / Pattern Understanding and Reproduction Ability / Pigment Mixing / Precision Coloring Technique
Recommended Skills
Design Software (Adobe) / English Literature Reading / Glaze Chemistry / Gold Luster / Quality Control
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because it is necessary to accurately draw fine patterns and colors. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Creativity is required for color adjustment and pattern design. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Accuracy is needed for pigment mixing, but advanced calculation skills are not required. |
Related Qualifications
- Ceramics and Stone Products Manufacturing Technician
Related Jobs
- Bisque Firing Worker (Ceramics Manufacturing)
- Blank Forming Worker (Ceramics Manufacturing)
- Glazing Worker (Ceramics Manufacturing)