龍渓硯 Ryukeisuzuri Ryukeisuzuri ink-stones
|
Ryukeisuzuri ink-stones are made of ryukeiseki (a biotite clay stone) found in hills to the west of the town of Tatsuno, in Kami Ina district, in Nagano Prefecture. About 170 years ago the Takatoo clan had no local core industry and were in financial difficulty. By chance, the clan headsman found a type of stone brought from a local mine that was suitable for making ink-stones . Later, he invites an ink craftsman to help independently develop a special manufacturing method, which resulted in the ink-stones of the Nabekurazawa area. During the Meiji period, usage of ink-stones decreased as demand for pencils, pens and fountain-pens increased. But at the beginning of Showa period, these ink-stones drew great attention and the governor of the area at that time renamed them Ryukeisuzuri. The skill and time that went in to making these high-quality ink-stones became famous across Japan, even catching the attention of well-known writers. Ryukeisuzuri ink-stones are carefully made, have exceptional durability, enhance the qualities of the ink, and are highly favored by writers, artists, and collectors throughout Japan.
- address
- Tatsumimachi, Kamiina-gun, Nagano Prefecture
- name
- Ryukeisuzuri ink-stones