About Tohsen-gama Kiln
We carry out our integrated production from molding to painting, firing, and glazing, all in the Sennyu-Ji Temple area of Kyoto. By combining gold and platinum colors with gorgeously colored tortoiseshell glaze, we are crafting tableware that matches modern life, while using traditional techniques.
Tortoiseshell crackle glaze, Kinsai golden touch and Mishimade inlay technique, together with traditional motifs add color to modern life
A traditional glaze with beautiful multi-layered crackles, Tortoiseshell crackle glaze. Characterized by its gorgeous colors created by mixing clay and pigments, Tortoiseshell crackle glaze is a representative glaze used for generations at Okayama Ceramics Studio (Tohsen-gama Kiln). Blue (Celadon) is a color created by Tohsen-gama's unique pigment formulation. Pink reflects the color of red rich iron clay, and gray reflects the color of blue pigmented clay. Therefore, by combining them with golden and platinum colors, we managed to give the plate a modern touch.
The Inka flower seals that are scattered around the rim of the lip are made by Mishimade inlay technique to make only the large flowers shiny. The front shining effect of the plate was achieved through the trial and error method, by adjusting the position and angle of the crescent-shaped quenching part. It can be used in a wide range of applications, such as main dishes and one-plate styles, to create gorgeous table settings.
Techniques
Clay
Besides the glaze, the clay mix plays a vital role in achieving the Tortoiseshell crackle glaze effect. In order to achieve the ideal effect, we have been researching various types of clay and collaborated with numerous raw materials providers for over half a year.
Both the low iron pale red clay and the blue pigmented clay are original clays.
Mishimade inlay technique (Inka seal/Line engraving)
At its origins, it is a traditional technique used to reveal a pattern by stamping a porcelain seal on the base material, or by filling clay in the recesses left by the carved lines. Used in the ceramics of the Joseon dynasty, this inlay technique was brought over to Japan from the Korean Peninsula and was known by the Japanese as Mishima or Mishimade.
Tortoiseshell crackle glaze
During the Southern Song dynasty in China, beautiful glaze textures were observed in official suburban kilns due to the difference in thermal expansion between the base clay and the glaze. Among those patterns, special attention and consideration were given to the Tortoiseshell crackle glaze, Double crackle glaze, Rose crackle glaze, and Ice crackle glaze.
Golden/Platinum Touch
After the main firing is complete, golden and platinum colors are applied, and fire the pottery at around 730 °C, by this the Mishima inlay techniques beauty truly stands out.
Combined with the Tortoiseshell crackle glaze, it creates an atmosphere that is easy to match with modern lifestyles.
Works
Left: Grey Cherry Herringbone Tea Bowl 120×80ｍｍ
Right: Grey Cherry Herringbone Mizusashi (Pitcher) 140×180ｍｍ
Blue porcelain flower paisley 180×80ｍｍ
Warm flower bowl 480×160ｍｍ