Setotaishō (瀬戸大将)

Name Meaning

Setotaishō (瀬戸大将) combines “Seto,” referring to a region famous for pottery, with “Taishō,” meaning general or commander.

  • Seto (瀬戸) = famous pottery-producing area
  • Taishō (大将) = general or commander

Origin

  • Belongs to the tsukumogami class—objects that gain spirits after 100 years.
  • Formed from discarded or broken ceramic wares that felt betrayed or neglected.
  • Legends are rooted in Seto, Aichi Prefecture, known for fine ceramics.

Appearance

  • Appears as a humanoid warrior assembled from mismatched shards of earthenware.
  • Often depicted wearing armor made of ceramic plates and bowls.
  • May have glowing eyes set into teacups or pot lids.

Behavior & Myths

  • Roams abandoned kilns and storerooms at night.
  • May exact vengeance on careless owners who broke or tossed valuable pottery.
  • Sometimes seen protecting other tsukumogami or broken items.

Symbolism

  • Embodies the spirit of forgotten tools and artistry.
  • Symbolizes respect for craftsmanship and the impermanence of objects.
  • Reminds people to value and properly dispose of household goods.
Setotaisho ceramic warrior
Yokai made of pottery shards