About Sanshu Onigawara (Demon Roof Tiles)
Sanshu Onigawara are ornamental demon-face roof tiles and decorative tiles produced mainly in Takahama City, Aichi Prefecture. As a Sanshu roof tile production area dating to the Muromachi period, the demon-face tiles ('onigawara') used to ward off evil from rooftops are individually crafted sculptures carved by hand. Sanshu tiles made from local clay—with excellent compressive strength and low water absorption—account for approximately 70% of Japan's roof tiles. The ornamental demon tiles represent the pinnacle of this region's sculptural craftsmanship.
Techniques & Materials
Craft terms are shown in the original Japanese — these are proper names with no standard English equivalents.
Techniques
手彫り（鬼師）型押し成形本焼き（窖窯）いぶし銀仕上げ
Materials
三州粘土（高浜粘土）薪・ガス窯
Where to see & buy
Workshop names are in Japanese; links go to their official sites.
- 高浜市かわら美術館・図書館 hands-on experience