ZOKOKU-NURI
Development of TechniqueThis method came about as a result of Zokoku Tamakaji's comprehensive study of Chinese and Japanese techniques. Red and yellow powder that is processed from a potter's wheel is ground to a yellow and red paste and a primer of lacquer is stenciled on by brush followed by a sprinkling of 'makomo' or rice powder.This is the method known as zokokunuri.Wild rice is a long flowering grass which grows along rivers and at the edge of lakes (the Tone River bank area is famous). The stalks are 2 metres high and the span from leaf to leaf is around 90cm. On the tips of young stalks grow clover which are called ' komasu' and these are clipped off and and the sepia color powder which is inside is removed. This is an ingredient of Kagawa lacquer ware which is famous and can not be left out of zokokunuri.
ZOKOKU ARTISTRY
The method of production includes using a method called 'gara-suji ' , stripe pattern which involves using a wide variety of lines in random order and is achieved by the rough finish from the potter's wheel and also by using the sanukibori method.Zokokunuri is a type of lacquer ware with simple beauty in its solidity and one filled with the atmosphere of folk art in appearance. The patterns of lines which look haphazard at first glance have a special harmony and allows the individual to appreciate the depth of shadow. In addition, the more frequently the pieces are used , the rougher the hue becomes. In 1976, Kagawa prefecture received recognition by the country as an important craft producing area for zokokunuri, as it had for kinma and zonsei. This was through traditional craft industry product promotion legislation.
|