JC17 Shimamoto Sekizai [ Aji-stone products ] ×Leon Ransmeier

The Aji stone quarried at Mt. Goken- stretching through the towns of Mure and Aji in Kagawa- is known as the “diamond of granites” for its fine texture and delicate sheen. The mottled pattern of densely packed black mica that further enhances the material’s charm is found nowhere else in the world of stone. A hardness rivaling quartz and its strong resistance to weathering and discoloration makes it valuable for inscription stones, the primary use of Aji stone. The wonderful qualities of the material have long inspired the skills of stoneworkers, and particularly captivated the fascination of sculptor Isamu Noguchi.

When visiting the Aji stone quarry and Shimamoto Sekizai Kogyo, a Japanese stone working company, Leon Ransmeier decided to bring the beauty of Aji stone into daily life. He proposed expressing the potential of this hard and sturdy stone as kitchen tools: a nutcracker, a rolling pin, and a mortar and pestle. Together with the craftsmanship and prowess of Shimamoto Sekizai Kogyo, the collection of sculptural objects captures the visual and tactile qualityes of the stone through their everyday use.