KEIGAMA
TOKONAME, AICHI
Tokoname is a town located in the center of the Chita Peninsula in Aichi prefecture, where a gentle sea breeze blows through pleasantly.The origins of pottery making in Tokoname date back to the end of the Heian period, and it is one of the Rokkoyo (Six Ancient Kilns) that are listed on Japan Heritage.
In the past, it was the largest pottery production area in Japan, and everyday items such as jars, pots and mortars were transported all over Japan by sea. Along with the development of infrastructure, large-scale pottery such as clay pipes and ceramic ducts for cable as well as building materials such as tiles, and sanitary ceramics began to be produced. In addition, the production of teapots called kyuusu began at the end of the Edo period, and today, artisans continue to make them. A variety of pottery has continued to be produced in this area making use of the sun, wind, water, fire, and the clay that accumulated at the bottom of Lake Tokai that existed millions of years ago. Our work continues to build on this 1000 year history.
The company was founded by my grandfather to make bonsai pots, and we have supplied large bonsai pots to the Imperial Household Agency and other customers in Japan and overseas. At the time, Tokoname was a pottery production center that specialized in large-scale pottery, so all the pottery makers had very large plaster molds, and the amount of clay they handled was on a completely different scale to today. They formed pieces on the first floor and took them to the second floor for drying, so many of the kilns in Tokoname had low ceilings to make it easier to bring the products to the second floor.
Over time, our business transitioned into tableware, and we, the third generation, are now working on a wide range of products, including tableware and interior goods, based on the techniques passed down from the previous generation.
The slab-building technique called tatara, which we inherited from previous generations, is the basis of our production, and we also use the potter's wheel depending on the shape. We are committed to handmade production as we believe that the handmaking in every step of the process enables us to create detailed expressions. As a flexible manufacturer, we carefully respond to customer requests for size and color.
In addition, there are many unique materials and techniques in Tokoname. We will continue to explore and utilize all of them, and create products that convey the local characteristics.
The “Ban Project”, which was launched in the 2000s to explore the possibilities of Tokoname ware, is the origin of the “Ban” series. After about 10 years of development, the Ban was born from the desire of the potteries, kyuusu craftsmen, and artists to bring together their respective skills and pass on the traditions that have been handed down to the next generation.
The thoughts of the creators which continue on through the generations and the characteristics of a generous land facing the sea where time flows slowly are reflected in our vessels.
The vessels of Ban, which are imbued with the local spirit, are made entirely by hand, with the utmost care given to the empty space, so that the food can be presented to its best advantage.
In addition to the Ban series, we also accept orders for other items upon request. Please feel free to contact us.
Official Online StoreYou can see various samples at our gallery next to the factory.
Please let us know if you want to visit.
＊Please contact us by e-mail or Instagram if you plan to visit us.
Maruyo Hisada Seitousho (Keigama)
tel&fax 0569-35-2987
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