The Museum of Oriental Ceramics, Osaka (MOCO) reopened on Friday, April 12, 2024, after completing a two-year extension and renovation project, mainly on the entrance hall. It is a relief to see more visitors than expected, but it also encourages us to be prepared for the upcoming challenges to fulfill our mission.

MOCO was established in commemoration of receiving the Ataka Collection, gifted by the Sumitomo Group. The Ataka Collection consists mainly of Chinese and Korean ceramics, assembled by the general trading company Ataka Co., Ltd., which had its headquarters in Osaka. The opening of the Museum was in November 1982 and it celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2022. Furthermore, MOCO received a valuable gift from Dr. Rhee Byung-Chang, a Korean businessperson and Korean ceramics researcher who resided in Japan. The gift consisted of a collection of Korean ceramics, which the Museum received in three batches starting in 1996, and Dr. Rhee’s personal property which he contributed as funds for research on Korean ceramics. In addition to these two great Ataka and Rhee Byung-Chang collections, MOCO has received generous donations of ceramics collections from different genres and periods, including modern and contemporary ceramics. On the other hand, the Museum continues to strengthen its collection by acquiring new works, such as Japanese ceramics. As of March 2024, MOCO’s collection has grown to a total of 5,732 items, which includes 2 National Treasures, 13 Important Cultural Properties, and 9 Important Art Objects.

Over 20 years after Dr. Rhee’s donation, MOCO decided to sell the property and, while securing the funds for Korean ceramics research, the proceeds from the sale and residue from the Sumitomo Group were allocated for the extension work on its entrance hall. This renovation was made to enhance the charm of the Museum. The spacious entrance hall adds a friendly, welcoming atmosphere to the somewhat sturdy building, and delivers a sense of unity between the museum building and the neighboring Nakanoshima Park. We believe a comfortable atmosphere and an excellent exhibition environment are indispensable elements for a museum to continue its activities and pass them down to future generations.

After the COVID-19 pandemic, while dealing with daily challenges, MOCO strives to become a more attractive and valuable institution over the next 40 years of its activities. We will be making consistent efforts to promote the charm of Asian Ceramics through steady activities such as exhibitions, based on academic research, and art education. We aim to ensure every visitor has an unforgettable and rewarding experience that adds value to their everyday life.

July 2024
MORIYA Masashi
Director
The Museum of Oriental Ceramics, Osaka