Onigawara incense holder by Rakusai Bisai

Width: 5.9cm x 7.0cm Height: 3.5cm

Onigawara incense container (made by Onishi Rakusai)

--The majestic figure of the demon-warding tile demon resides in the palm of your hand--

1. Overview of the work

This incense holder in the shape of a demon tile was created by Yashiro Onishi Rakusai , a master craftsman of Akahada ware from Nara. The cross section of the demon tile protecting the ridge of the roof has been condensed to approximately 7cm square, and the upper demon face forms the lid, while the base is the body, creating a two-part structure that can hold incense and pieces of aloeswood. The rough iron-brown glaze has purple-brown kiln changes running through it, creating an appealing appearance reminiscent of the surface of a tile that has been exposed to wind and rain for many years.

2. Characteristics of the design

3. Techniques and glaze tones

Layers of iron-brown glaze <br data-end="507" data-start="504">A thick layer of iron-rich glaze is applied to the red clay, and the color changes from brown to black-purple after reduction firing at 1240°C. The fine speckles are reminiscent of the texture of fired roof tiles.

Sculptural molding <br data-end="585" data-start="582">The lid is carved out of a lump of clay, and the threads are trimmed when it is half dry. The joint is carefully ground to ensure smooth opening and closing.

Inlaid lines<br data-end="657" data-start="654">Shallow lines are engraved with a thin bamboo spatula on the area between the eyebrows and the beard, and the shadows created by the glaze pools accentuate the three-dimensional effect.

4. The origin of onigawara and talismans

Onigawara were introduced to Japan during the Nara period along with continental culture, and were placed on the ridge of roofs with the idea of ​​"protecting the house by making terrifying demons your allies." They also serve the function of covering the cut edges of the ridge beams and preventing rainwater from seeping in. Even today, they are used as symbols of warding off evil spirits, fire prevention, and misfortune, and their designs vary widely, including demon masks, waves, clouds, cranes, and turtles.

5. Arrangements at tea ceremonies

6. Onishi Rakusai's ceramics philosophy

Onishi Rakusai believes in the motto "Putting Nara's history and prayers into tea pottery in the palm of his hand," and has a deep respect for the onigawara tiles that have protected the roofs of the area, alongside motifs associated with Nara such as deer, temple bells, and ridge-end ornaments. This piece is exquisitely balanced, taking advantage of the iron qualities of Akahada clay to recreate the earthy power of the tile oni , while also being pettable enough to fit in the palm of your hand.

The Onigawara incense container is a masterpiece that condenses the majesty of the demon that has protected homes for over a thousand years into a vessel just a few inches thick. When you open the lid, the rising incense smoke envelops the demon mask, as if calling clouds from the ridge of the old tiles. It will quietly protect the tea room as a symbol of warding off evil and inviting good fortune, not only at seasonal turning points and celebratory occasions, but also during daily practice.

A conversation with Rakusai Onishi