Nunome Gold Leaf Ornamental Plate

This ornamental plate is illustrated with fluid and skilled brushstrokes, depicting a group of cranes standing and gazing into the distance under blooming cherry blossoms. The surface employs the nunome technique, leaving a grain of fabric or cloth texture, enhancing the plate's visual and tactile quality. The background is covered in gold leaf, giving the entire piece an elegant and noble radiance.

The word 鶴 "crane" was brought to Japan from ancient China, where the crane is considered a symbol of longevity and auspiciousness, believed to live for a thousand years. In Japan, cranes not only symbolize longevity but also represent happiness and are considered sacred birds. They are often given as gifts at weddings, signifying a long and happy future together. This concept also spread to Japan, where cranes became particularly popular as decorative motifs among the nobility and samurai during the Heian period(794 CE－1185 CE). By the Edo period(1603 CE－1868 CE), crane paintings and embroideries had become fashionable among the common people as well.

One of the most captivating aspects of Kutani ware is its vibrant colors. The artist, Kitamura Takashi, inspired by ko-Kutani ware, employs his research and color-mixing techniques to create a vivid painting using the Kutani go-sai "five colors." Various forms of pink cherry blossoms and lifelike cranes come together to form an exceptionally beautiful scene.

Through this artwork, the artist conveys a sense of opulence and elegance. The meticulously crafted gold leaf background emits a gentle glow reminiscent of warm spring sunlight, while the adorable pink cherry blossoms combined with the auspicious cranes present a scene of prosperity and grandeur.

The gold leaf background reflects a soft, gentle light, which is not dazzling and beautifully highlights the elegance of the cherry blossoms and cranes. The black color on the surface, resembling brush strokes in an ink painting, comes from the iron-rust glaze visible beneath the gold leaf. This interplay of colors and textures imparts a profound sense of artistic beauty to the piece, captivating the viewer with its depth and complexity.

Kitamura Takashi

Kitamura Takashi's art captures Japan's seafaring spirit, celebrating the bravery of the kitamaebune merchant ships. By portraying their departure rather than their return, he evokes deep emotions and symbolizes the courage required for uncertain journeys. His work reflects the solemnity and romanticism of these maritime voyages, creating a noble narrative of people setting out to explore the future.

Kutani ware is a pottery produced in the Kaga region of Ishikawa Prefecture and it has a history of over 350 years. It is characterized by the heavy brilliance of the five colors of green, yellow, red, purple, and navy blue that are applied to the bold and daring lines. Its long history has evolved through the tireless efforts and enthusiasm of people who have sought innovation while maintaining tradition.

The beauty of the various styles and methods of painting is known as "Japan Kutani" and is highly regarded around the world.