In the heart of Gifu Prefecture's Tajimi City, a place renowned for its rich ceramic history, lies the Zoho Gama Kiln, a guardian of Minoyaki pottery tradition. Today, we delve into a unique aspect of their artistry: the Zoho Aka or the red patterns that have become synonymous with the kiln's legacy.
The Essence of Zoho Aka
At Zoho Gama, red is not just a color; it's a testament to the kiln's commitment to craftsmanship and tradition. The journey of creating the perfect 'Aka' or red enamel is a painstaking process that spans over a thousand days. This labor of love transforms the raw material into a vivid red enamel, a color that deepens and enriches over time, much like fine wine.
A Rare Art
What makes Zoho Aka truly remarkable is the rarity of its primary ingredient. The kiln uses a specific type of oxidized iron, known in the industry as the elusive "Momiji-in Akagara." This ingredient, no longer in production and thus extremely rare, is what gives Zoho Aka its unique hue and depth.
The Birth of Sen-nichi Suri Red (Red Enamel Paint)
This captivating journey into the world of red began over three decades ago with an encounter with Karakuro, a figure pivotal in the history of Japanese ceramics. Inspired by his writings, the artists at Zoho Gama embarked on creating their red enamel, a process that involved meticulous grinding by the elderly hands of a dedicated grandmother, day in and day out, for a thousand days.
The Discovery of a Phantom Ingredient
In a twist of fate, a large quantity of the rare Momiji-in Akagara was discovered during the demolition of an old house. This fortunate find has enabled Zoho Gama to continue the legacy of their unique red, promising to preserve and pass on this precious art to future generations.
Waresu Akae Pottery
Zoho Aka is not just a color but a style. Influenced by the Waresu Akae pottery from China, known for its multi-colored designs, Zoho Gama has embraced this style and made it uniquely their own. Their designs often feature floral patterns like chrysanthemums and arabesque motifs, a testament to their dedication to both tradition and innovation.
Conclusion
As we explore the rich and vibrant world of Zoho Gama's red patterns, we are reminded of the deep connection between art, tradition, and the human touch. Zoho Aka is not just pottery; it's a living history, a canvas where every brushstroke tells a story of patience, dedication, and unparalleled craftsmanship.
