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Professor Yutaka Idogawa of the Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences has been awarded the Medal with Purple Ribbon for Autumn 2025. The Medal with Purple Ribbon is one of Japan’s national Medals of Honor, awarded by the government and presented by the Emperor to recognize outstanding achievements in science and technology, academia, sports, arts, and culture.
Idogawa has systematically explored gindei-saiji (silver-painted porcelain), an advanced decorative technique in traditional ceramics in which precious metal powders, overglaze pigments, porcelain bodies, firing conditions, and other elements interact in complex ways. He approaches this technique through both research and the creation of his works.
As a result, he has received numerous honors at Japan’s most prestigious public and craft exhibitions, including the Takamatsunomiya Memorial Award at the 62nd Japan Traditional Art Crafts Exhibition, and is contributing to new developments in the craft field.
He has also produced original works inspired by everyday vegetables such as daikon radish sprouts, chili peppers, and broccoli, revealing familiar beauty from new perspectives.
At Hiroshima University, he has dedicated himself to cultivating the next generation through craft and formative arts education, mentoring many students. His achievements in research, education, and social contribution together reflect the significance of this award.
“I still cannot quite believe it, but when I look at the remarkable ceramic artists who have received this honor before me, I feel truly honored. I would like to express my gratitude to everyone associated with Hiroshima University and its faculty and staff,” said Idogawa.
Prof. Yutaka Idogawa
“Moving forward, alongside creating new works, I hope to pass on the appeal of craft to the next generation through education.”
Hiroshima University extends its heartfelt congratulations on this achievement.
Prize-winning work awarded the Takamatsunomiya Memorial Prize at the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition: Gindei-saiji bowl (diameter 41 cm)
Prize-winning work awarded the TOKI Oribe Prize at the 8th Contemporary Tea Ceremony Exhibition: Gindei-saiji mukōzuke with radish sprout motif
Also read:
This interview, conducted when Idogawa received the Takamatsunomiya Memorial Prize at the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition, explores the appeal of ceramics, the rewards of his work as a researcher and educator, the challenges behind creating the prize-winning piece, and his goals for the future.
Hiroshima University Public Relations Office

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