Delicate Techniques as the Essence of Tokyo Shippou

What exactly is Tokyo Shippou?

Shippou-yaki is a craft technique created by layering a glass-like glaze over a metal surface and firing it at high temperatures.

While typical Shippou-yaki often has raised, three-dimensional finishes, "Tokyo Shippou" is characterized by relatively flat designs.

Additionally, when creating Shippou-yaki, there is a groove on the metal surface for applying the glaze. In standard Shippou-yaki, this groove is about 0.8mm deep, while Tokyo Shippou has only 0.4mm. Because the grooves are shallow, it demands exceptional skill, allowing for the expression of delicate designs.

Can you tell us about the founding of "Hatakeyama Shippou Seisakusyo"?

The father who started this workshop was originally a craftsman making ribbons for medals. However, after the war, as that work disappeared, he encountered Shippou-yaki while searching for a new path. He then apprenticed at Shoji Shippou, honed his skills, and became independent in 1951.

Since elementary school, I have helped out with simple tasks like laying out Shippou-yaki on nets to dry. Even as a child, I thought, "Shippou-yaki is beautiful and interesting."