The 'Scenery of Tsuboya': Forged by Earth, Fire, and Human Hands

Nestled in the heart of Naha City, Tsuboya Yachimun Street offers a tranquil escape. The pottery crafted here, known as Yachimun or Tsuboya-yaki, originates from the Tsuboya district, which was officially established in 1682. Following World War II, this craft became a cornerstone of Okinawa's revitalization. Ikutouen is a historic pottery studio that has been a guardian of this "Scenery of Tsuboya" for generations.

The studio is distinguished by its unique system of specialized labor, involving around 20 artisans. Each step of the process—kneading the clay, shaping on the potter's wheel, carving intricate lines, applying glaze, firing in the kiln, and hand-painting designs—is handled by a dedicated team. It's through this collaborative effort and the touch of many hands that a single vessel or Shisa lion is brought to life.

One of Ikutouen's signature techniques is Karakusa-senbori (arabesque line carving), where intricate patterns are carved freehand, without any preliminary sketches. Glazing is another delicate art, a process carefully adjusted based on the day's humidity, air dryness, and the specific condition of the clay. In the creation of their famous Shisa lions, the studio continues to use molds based on the work of the fifth-generation master, Ikuo Takaesu, a designated Contemporary Master Craftsman. This legacy ensures each piece carries a distinctive blend of dignified strength and gentle spirit.