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Koyo Ibushi Arare is a refined mosaic tile collection handcrafted in Himeji, Japan, by the master ceramicists at Koyo Seiga. Each tile is made using the traditional Ibushi Kawara technique, where carefully blended clay is slowly fired and then smoked in a reduction chamber. This creates a natural carbon layer that gives the surface its distinctive Ibushi Silver finish, a soft, metallic sheen that shifts subtly with the light and develops a deeper patina over time. Koyo’s expertise in this craft has earned it a place in the restoration of cultural landmarks, including the UNESCO-listed Himeji Castle.

The Arare collection includes seven different sizes, from delicate 11 × 11 mm mosaics to larger, more substantial formats. Each piece shares the same natural materiality and surface character. With slight variations in thickness and tone, the tiles create gentle shadow play and textural richness across a surface. Mounted on mesh sheets for ease of installation, the different sizes can be used individually or combined to create layered compositions with depth and restraint.

Composed only of clay and carbon, Koyo Ibushi Arare contains no glazes or synthetic treatments. Its microporous structure helps regulate humidity, absorb odours, resist UV and frost, and emit far-infrared radiation. This makes it a practical choice for both indoor and outdoor wall applications, including bathrooms, spas, galleries, and architectural façades. Surfaces must be properly sealed to ensure durability in exterior settings.

The tiles require careful handling during installation. Gloves should be worn to protect the surface, tape should be avoided, and where joints are visible, a black silicone adhesive is recommended to preserve visual clarity and definition.

Koyo Ibushi Arare is a contemporary expression of one of Japan’s oldest ceramic traditions. It brings together natural beauty, technical performance, and quiet sophistication in a surface that will continue to evolve with time and use. The sheet images shown depict the actual product layout, but the fine scale of the tiles may cause the images to appear larger than they are. For a true sense of proportion, please refer to the listed dimensions of each variant.

Price shown is per m2

Last updated: 29/05/26

ceramic

Architectural