広がる土味の焼き肌、自然の力で引き出す魅力

岡山県備前市周辺で作られる陶器。釉薬をかけずに焼かれた「無釉焼き締め」が特徴で、土の成分や配合、温度変化によって作品が予期せぬ表情を見せる「窯変（ようへん）」は、自然の妙であり「土と炎の芸術」とも言われる。鉄分と有機物を多く含んだ備前の土本来の可能性が最大限に生かされる。

Pottery made in Okayama Prefecture. The "unglazed firing," in which pieces are fired without glaze, is a characteristic feature. The "kiln transformation," in which pieces show unexpected expressions depending on the composition and mixture of clay and changes in temperature, is a wonder of nature and is also called "the art of clay and flame. This is a natural wonder of nature and is called "the art of clay and flame." The original potential of Bizen clay, which is rich in iron and organic matter, is utilized to its fullest extent.

投げても割れぬ。強さの理由

火力が強い赤松などを燃料に行う「窯焚き」。窯を1000〜1200度で保ち、一般的に10〜14日間程度火で満たす。高温で熱せられた窯では、さまざまな化学反応が起こっている。窯焚き後の冷却過程で、表面の結晶が成長し、自然的なうつくしい模様が作られる。

Kiln firing" is performed using red pine or other wood with strong fire power as fuel. The kiln is maintained at 1,000 to 1,200 degrees Celsius and is generally filled with fire for 10 to 14 days. Various chemical reactions take place in the kiln heated at high temperatures. During the cooling process after kiln firing, crystals on the surface grow and create natural, beautiful patterns.

備前の土だからこそ生まれる景色

備前焼ならではのそれらの模様にはそれぞれ名前が付けられており、備前焼独特の赤系の緋（ひ）色の筋が走る「緋襷（ひだすき）」、胡麻をかかったような「胡麻」などがある。

The unique patterns of Bizen ware have their own names, such as "Hidasuki," a reddish scarlet stripe unique to Bizen ware, and "Goma," which looks as if it has been sprinkled with sesame seeds.

鉄分と有機物を多く含んだ備前の土本来の可能性が最大限に生かされた備前焼。力強くありながら、繊細さも併せ持つ豊かな“景色”は、人々の心を魅了して止まない。

This is pottery that makes the most of the potential of Bizen clay, which is rich in iron and organic matter. The rich "scenery," which is both powerful and delicate, never ceases to fascinate people's hearts.