Yakushiji Temple East Pagoda Foundation Soil Magatama Lid Rest Byari Rakusai

Width: 7.5cm x 5.0cm Height: 2.5cm

Yakushiji Temple East Pagoda Base Clay Magatama Lid Rest (Yakushiji Toutou Kidando Magatama Futaoki) Made by Onishi Rakusai

--A "pearl of life" born from the earth of 1,300 years, placed at a spot by the fireplace--

1. Work summary

This magatama-shaped lid rest was carved by Yatsushiro Onishi Rakusai, a Nara Akahada ware maker, from clay collected during the dismantling and repair (2009–2020) of the East Pagoda of Yakushiji Temple, the head temple of the Hosso sect of Buddhism. Its smooth curves, which fit in the palm of your hand, and the rough texture of the clay base evoke ancient earthenware, while a single speck of gold leaf on the top adds a radiance reminiscent of sunlight.

2. Shape and glaze

Form : A practical design based on the magatama (comma-shaped bead) that has been used since the Jomon period, with a flat "recess" that stabilizes the grip of the tea scoop and the kettle lid.

Material feel : By firing without glaze and reduction firing, the iron contained in the foundation clay develops a reddish-brown color. Quartz grains sparkle here and there, giving the impression of a 1,300-year-old geological layer.

A single piece of gold leaf : This decoration symbolizes the sun (yang), and in contrast to the magatama representing the moon (yin), it suggests the harmony of yin and yang .

3. The significance of using foundation soil

The East Pagoda of Yakushiji Temple is a three-story pagoda designated as a National Treasure and is also known as "frozen music." The soil used for the base is sacred soil that was tamped down by artisan monks of the Hakuho period to support the central pillar of the pagoda. The clay, which has matured in moisture for many years, combines plasticity and iron, and is also known as "miracle soil," with famous potters attempting to create their works from it.

4. Cultural background of the magatama motif

Magatama became popular during the middle of the Jomon period, and appear in the Kojiki as the "Yasakani no Magatama," one of the three sacred treasures. Symbolizing the fetus, the moon, and the soul, they are said to represent rebirth, protection, and harmony , and in the tea ceremony they have been used on lid rests and incense containers as auspicious symbols protecting the hearth, the place where life is nurtured.

5. Arrangements at tea ceremonies

6. Onishi Rakusai's approach to pottery making

Following on from his deer, temple bells and crested spires, Onishi Rakusai has now taken on the challenge of combining the life-giving symbolism of magatama with the foundation clay that embodies history itself . By eliminating the glaze and highlighting the earthenware, the piece is finished in a way that allows one to fully experience the "breath of raw clay" woven together by the firing flames and 1,300 years of maturation.

Made entirely from clay from within the Yakushiji Temple grounds, this piece, thoroughly purified of impurities, is characterized by its pristine beauty. The time-honored clay is homogeneous, imparting a clear luster upon firing and a gentle hue reminiscent of antique roofing tiles upon firing. Its smooth texture and resistance to warping are also appealing. The story of the clay, which embodies 1,300 years of history, brings a sense of peace every time you handle it. This exceptional piece combines materiality, beauty, and spirituality. The Yakushiji East Pagoda Base Clay Magatama Lid Rest is a masterpiece, capturing the ancient cycle of prayer and life in the tranquil red clay and golden glow. Every time the ladle and kettle lid are gently placed on top, the mystical presence residing in the curves of the magatama will fill the tea room, speaking to the host and guests of timeless beauty.

A conversation with Rakusai Onishi