Sometsuke is a technique for decorating porcelain using an underglaze known as cobalt oxide, or gosu. Originally utilized in Persia and the Tang Dynasty (618 CE–907 CE), the modern sometsuke style was developed in Jingdezhen, China, towards the end of the Yuan Dynasty (1271 CE–1368 CE). It was later introduced to the Korean peninsula during the early Yi Dynasty (14th–19th century) and to Japan in the 17th century. During the Edo period (1603 CE–1868 CE), sometsuke as a technique rapidly spread across Japan, significantly improving in both method and design. This led to the creation of many outstanding works.

The process begins by painting bisque-fired pottery with gosu, a cobalt-based blue pigment. This initial application involves techniques such as line drawing or dami, which cover lined areas with the pigment using a long-bristled brush. After the pigment application, a transparent glaze is applied over the entire piece. It then undergoes high-temperature firing, which fuses the cobalt pigment with the glaze, creating a vibrant and non-toxic blue. This technique, known as shitae or underglaze painting, allows the design to become permanently embedded within the ceramic body.

Over time, Japanese sometsuke has undergone a stylistic shift, favoring delicate floral patterns that utilize the white porcelain as negative space. This move away from designs that covered the entire surface is now a hallmark of Japanese sometsuke. The style is prevalent across various regions, each with its own distinct take on the technique. Production areas like Kyoto, Seto, Hasami, Mikawachi, and Kutani all incorporate local variations in materials and painting methods, adding a unique touch to their sometsuke production.

Arita Keizan Kiln

Keizan kiln, named after "Keizan" meaning "beautiful mountain," is a manufacturer of Arita Ware established in 1957 beside a beautiful valley with a clear stream. The kiln was founded in 1957 by master ceramic artist in a place where the traditional Arita porcelain industry has continued for 400 years.

Ri Sanpei (Yi Sam-pyeong) Kiln

Ri Sanpei (Yi Sam-pyeong) Kiln - The Founder of Arita Ware established the foundation of Arita Ware and is still highly respected by Japanese ceramic artists today. The founder, Korean ceramic master Ri Sanpei (Yi Sam-pyeong), emigrated to Japan 400 years ago, and his descendants continue to carry on the tradition in the present day with aspirations that transcend national borders.

Hasami Fukuhou Kiln

Fukuhou Kiln is a 50-year-old Hasami ware kiln, famous for its skilled hand-painted "Sometsuke" and "Akae" products. If you entered the studio and looked at the works of the artisans of Fukuhou Kiln, you would realize that even the most delicate and subtle lines were drawn without hesitation. It is truly craftsmanship. Among the many Hasami ware kilns, Fukuhou kiln has an established reputation for the delicate painting of the "Tokusa"(vertical stripe) pattern, and this series has become a long seller.

In recent years, Hasami ware has gained popularity for its ease of use and modern style and has been attracting attention among Japanese young people. This Fukuhou kiln has also succeeded in combining traditional techniques with modern needs. The tableware is easy to use, has a warm shape, and is stylish enough to complement your food, making you want to use it every day.

Tobe Baizan Kiln

Baizan Kiln is the oldest existing kiln in Tobe City, Ehime Prefecture, Japan. Since its opening in 1882, the kiln has been inheriting its traditions for over 130 years. They have been making use of the materials of “Tobe” to produce practical handicrafts with the concept of "use and beauty”.

Tobe Higashi Kiln

Higashi Kiln's style is famous for the glass-like smoothness and the usage of the soft and pastel colors like watercolor paintings, which is not bound by conventional frameworks of Tobe ware.The painting is performed by female artist, Alyne Ohigashi, who was born in the Philippines and has been involved with creating Tobe ware items for more than 30 years at Higashi Kiln.

Kakusho Kiln

A historically presitigious kiln which used to serve the lordship of Hirado Domain in the Edo Period (1600 CE-1867 CE). Kakusho Kiln has passed on the traditional art of Blue and White for more than 300 years.The light-weight and elegant porcelain smooth to the touch. The soft and gentle shade of blue kind to the eye.

Kutani Choemon

Founded in 1879 in Nomi, Ishikawa, Kutani Choemon proudly produces Japanese tableware, all lovingly handcrafted by master artisans and drawing upon East Asia’s rich porcelain heritage. Festooned in deep, vibrant indigo blue and the five traditional colors of Kutani ware, our creations take you on a journey to the traditional yet unique and dynamic world of Kutani ware.