赤間硯作硯家 Yoichi Hieda

Mr. Hieda holds an academic doctorate with a doctoral thesis titled "Form and Material Properties of Akama Suzuri.

Dropping water onto the suzuri inkstone, gently gliding the brush over its surface in circular motions without applying force, evokes a peculiar sense of calmness. As you continue grinding the sumi ink, at a certain moment, the subtle fragrance of ink wafts in the air, and you feel a further sense of tranquility settling into your heart. It becomes a special moment derived from the act of grinding sumi ink.

A good suzuri inkstone, in fact, provides a sense of enjoyment in the grinding process and the Akama Suzuri, crafted by Mr. Hieda, is precisely such a suzuri inkstone that offers that delightful time. It also highlights the gentle and warm stone color of Akama stone, making its design a distinctive feature.

Akama suzuri shokunin, who also wears the hat of an academic doctor.
Mr. Yoichi Hieda, an academic Ph.D. (thesis title: "The Form of Akama Inkstone - An Investigative Study of Its Form, History, and Material Characteristics"), is a prominent suzuri shokunin and suzuri researcher. He is also actively engaged in giving lectures nationwide, further cementing his status as a notable figure in this field.
A modern and beautiful form that fits contemporary lifestyle.
His suzuri highlights the gentle and warm stone color of Akama stone, making its design a distinctive feature.In particular, the oval shape reflects a design approach focused on meeting modern requirements and achieving a lightweight structure.
Mr. Hieda personally sources the Dorotoishi (mud whetstone) that's suitable for inkstones.
Dorotoishi is meant for situations when the fibers from paper and the ink's Nikawa adhere and solidify on the brush, leading to clogging and the loss of the brush's edge, making it difficult to grind the sumi ink. However, Dorotoishi and suzuri can sometimes be a poor match and could potentially damage the suzuri. Therefore, Mr. Hieda is diligent in selecting the Dorotoishi with great care.