**What is Ontayaki?**
Ontayaki is a traditional craft with approximately 300 years of history, originating from the "Ontayaki no Sato" (Ontayaki Village) located in the northern part of Hita City, Oita Prefecture. The transmission of techniques follows the "Isshi Soden" tradition, where skills are passed down exclusively from father to son. Utilizing natural energy, every step of the process is performed by hand without the use of machinery. It is characterized by a simple, unadorned design and the texture and warmth unique to handmade items.
In 1954, the world-renowned British potter Bernard Leach visited the village, which helped spread its charm across the globe. In 1995, it was designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Japan.
**What does "created with natural energy" mean?*** The raw material is clay sourced from the mountains of Ontayaki no Sato.* The clay is crushed into a fine powder over 20 to 30 days using a "Karausu" (water-powered mortar) driven by river water.* Shaping is performed using a "Kerokuro" (kick wheel) rotated by the craftsman's feet.* Firing takes place in a "Noborigama" (climbing kiln) using firewood, with the fire being adjusted manually around the clock for 24 hours.
Through these and many other manual processes, Ontayaki is completed over a long period of time.
It is referred to as "Minto" (folk pottery) and has been praised as being "at any rate, more beautiful than anything produced by the most advanced chemistry."
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**[Product Model: EO-2]*** **Size:** W400 x D400 x H230* **Material:** Ceramic* **Features:*** Exterior: Yakishime (unglazed high-fire) / Rough carving* Interior: Green
*Note: As each item is handcrafted one by one, there may be slight variations in size and color application. Please understand these characteristics of the product before purchasing.*
| Product # | EO-2 |
|---|---|
| Specifications |
サイズ: W400 x D400 x H230 素材: 陶器 |
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