Traditional crafts of Aichi Prefecture
Seto and Tokoname Pottery
Seto ware is one of Japan’s representative ceramics, produced mainly in Seto City, Aichi Prefecture. The term “Setomono” has become synonymous with pottery in general due to Seto ware’s long history and diverse styles. It is characterized by its use of various glazes and designs, creating a wide range of products from tableware and flower vases to tea ceremony utensils and modern art pieces. The glaze techniques used in Seto ware are complex and beautiful, showcasing a variety of traditional colors.
Tokoname ware, produced in Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture, is particularly famous for its teapots made from red clay (shudei). These teapots are renowned for enhancing the aroma of tea, and their functionality and aesthetic appeal are highly appreciated. Another characteristic of Tokoname ware is its simple, unglazed design, offering a rustic and warm texture that is beloved by many. While preserving traditional techniques, both Seto and Tokoname pottery continue to explore new designs and uses, making them enduringly popular.
Mikawa Butsudan
Mikawa Butsudan is a traditional Buddhist altar crafted in the Mikawa region of Aichi Prefecture, known for its high craftsmanship and beauty. The creation of a Mikawa Butsudan involves multiple stages, starting with the selection of wood, followed by intricate carving, lacquer coating, and gold leaf application. The carvings are particularly detailed, often depicting religious symbols and natural motifs with great precision. The lacquer technique used in these altars requires exceptional skill, resulting in altars with a deep, glossy finish.
Mikawa Butsudan serves as a sacred place for honoring the ancestors of the family, symbolizing the family’s bonds and faith. These altars are often custom-made to meet the specific needs of each household, making each piece unique. The creation of a Mikawa Butsudan takes considerable time and requires the high skill of artisans, and its value is passed down through generations.
Nagoya Folding Fans
Nagoya folding fans are traditional folding fans made in Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture, known for their beautiful designs and fine craftsmanship. The fan surfaces are often adorned with traditional Japanese paintings or crafts, featuring beautiful scenes such as landscapes and bird-and-flower motifs. These fans may also include luxurious decorations using gold or silver leaf, leaving a strong impression on viewers.
Nagoya folding fans are valued not only as decorative items but also as practical tools. For instance, they are used to cool oneself in the summer and play an important role in traditional cultural practices like tea ceremonies and Japanese dance. The frames of the fans are typically made from bamboo or wood, adding a natural texture and feel to the product.
Additionally, Nagoya folding fans are popular as gifts due to their beauty and utility. The craftsmen in Nagoya continue to uphold traditional techniques while also incorporating new designs and functions to create fans that suit modern lifestyles. Nagoya folding fans represent the pinnacle of Japanese aesthetics and craftsmanship.