Awaji Island's Traditional Industries - Clay and Pottery
Roof tiles （Kawara)
The origins of roof tiles , we call them Kawara, in Awaji date back to 1610.
Roof tile manufacturers obtain their raw material, high-quality clay, in the south of Awaji Island.
A mix of non-sticky soil and sticky soil is kneaded many times to create a highly usable raw material. Currently, there are about 70 roof tile manufacturers on Awaji Island.
Awaji Island is one of the top producers of smoked roof tiles in Japan.
Minpei ware
Minpei ware is pottery that was started by Kashu Minpei on Awaji Island about 200 years ago.
Minpei ware is characterized by its wide variety.
Another feature is its vivid colors.
Under current laws, the use of glazes containing lead on food-grade pottery is prohibited, so this eye-catching color is a rare color that can no longer be produced. Unfortunately, Minpei ware has now disappeared, but Awabi Ware has arranged Minpei ware in a modern style and is creating everyday tableware under the concept of "tableware to be passed down."
Majolica tiles
In 1885, Zenkuro Keyakida, who inherited the Minpei ware technique, and others founded the company ”Tantosha.”
Tantosha began making tiles using the Minpei ware technique and producing "Japanese Victorian tiles/*Majolica tiles."
About 100 years ago, Tantosha produced Majolica tiles and sold them domestically and overseas. Its artistic quality and durability are being reevaluated.
Tantosha still produces tiles today in Awaji Island, which can be said to be the birthplace of domestic tiles.
* The name Majolica tiles is said to have originated from the fact that Spanish lusterware was called "Majorca ware (Mallorca ware)."
Awaji soil
Awaji soil is used for roof tiles, tiles, pottery, and clay walls.
According to Kinki Wall Materials Co., Ltd., Awaji soil is usually mined in the south of Awaji Island. Very rarely, high-quality light yellow soil and high-quality Awaji soil with very good color are mined from the stratum, and the soil is dried, crushed, and sieved.
A soil museum called "SHIDO" where you can experience the charm of Awaji Island's "soil" will open in January 2023. Awaji Island has many industries that use soil, such as Awaji tiles, pottery, and tiles. This gallery conveys the charm of Awaji Island's soil.
Past Projects↓
5 Minutes video of the Gossakaito Inner Ruins Symposium is available here.
