Collection: Mortar & Pestle

A Tool for Creating the Subtle Colors of Japan

The mortar (*nyūbatsu*) is used to finely grind *gofun* (white pigment made from seashells) and *suihi* pigments, both of which are used in Japanese painting.
It is an indispensable tool for authentic Japanese painting production.
By mixing the finely ground powder with animal glue solution, you can create a wide range of traditional Japanese colors.

How to Use a Mortar

A mortar is used together with a pestle to grind materials into fine powder.
Pigments used in Japanese painting, such as mineral pigments (*iwa-enogu*) and *suihi* pigments, are often made from soil or minerals, which are sold in hard or coarse-grained forms.

To dissolve them in glue solution or water and use them as paint, it is necessary to grind them into fine powder.
Place the pigments in the mortar and crush them with the pestle while mixing.
Since mortars are heavy ceramic, place a cloth under the mortar to prevent slipping, and stabilize it by lightly holding the rim with your free hand while grinding.
When using the pestle, hold it as straight as possible and apply moderate pressure without pressing too hard.