Tamura Kōichi (1918–1987) studied at the Tokyo School of Fine Arts and later worked under Tomimoto Kenkichi, whose approach to modern ceramic decoration had an important influence on his development. Tamura became particularly celebrated for his expressive use of iron painting and iron glazes, combining vigorous, often highly abbreviated brushwork with strongly conceived vessel forms. He later taught at his alma mater and in 1986 was designated a holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasure) for his iron-painted ceramics (tetsu-e), one year before his death.