Choho Kiln Pine Tree and Crane Kutani Mallet of Luck
A vibrant red hue serves as a bold base for the striking hues and textures of this Kutani ware piece. Called a kozuchi, or “mallet of luck”, it sits atop a matching red cushion to bring luck and longevity to your home. The kozuchi is an oft-seen symbol in Japanese folklore, and it is believed that anyone who holds and shakes it will have their wish granted.
The surface of the kozuchi is intricately decorated with a technique called mori-e, which uses thick paint to create lines and textures that add another visual dimension to the piece. This kozuchi features gold edges and stunning colors, plus paintings of a pine tree and crane, both auspicious symbols.
The pine tree, known as matsu in Japanese, stands tall on its base. It not only brings luck, but is also said to bring steadfastness and longevity. Pine trees are well-known for their evergreen needles that keep their color throughout the year, and are often found surrounding ancient castles and gardens throughout the country.
The crane flying above the tree is another omen of luck and longevity. According to an old Japanese proverb, cranes live 1,000 years. Every feather on the crane’s outstretched wings is raised from the Kutani ware technique called mori-e, bringing the beauty of the bird to life.
The kozuchi’s handle is tied with a red Edo braided cord, finished with a long fringe. Place this mallet of luck on its cushion anywhere to enjoy the good luck and fulfilled wishes it will bring you — or present it as a gift to a loved one who could use a little luck.
Choho Kiln was established at the end of the Taisho era (1912 CE - 1926 CE), and has continued to operate as a wholesaler and manufacturer of Kutani ware. In recent years, their main products have been interior decorations and ornaments. The third generation Choho continues to preserve traditional techniques and patterns while adopting the modern sense of new designs.
PRODUCT DETAIL
- Quantity: 1
- Dimension: L 21 cm (8.3 in) x W 12 cm (4.7 in) x H 11 cm (4.3 in)
- Material: Ceramic
- Origin: Made in Japan - Kutani ware
- Brand: Choho Kiln
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ABOUT CHOHO KILN
Choho Kiln is known for their skilled technique of "mori-e," a traditional technique of drawing patterns and designs with a thick paint onto a surface to give it a tactile texture and an added decorative touch. Choho Kiln developed the method of applying this method to Kutani ware figurines.
Nishi Chosaku, the founder of Choho Kiln studied the method of mori-e with his brother Taikichi back in the Taisho period. Up till that time, this method was used to decorate flat surfaces. The brothers developed the idea of applying this method to Kutani Ware figurines as Chosaku had studied the basics of form, design and color mixing as a teenager. As it turned, the mori-e technique suited Kutani figurines very well, and henceforth mori-e became a mainstream decorating technique.
Choho II learned various techniques from his predecessor, trained many apprentices, and solidified the foundation of Choho Kiln. Today, Choho is the third generation of the Choho family, and he is committed to preserving the tradition of mori-e while seeking out new possibilities for this technique.
About kutani ware
Kutani ware is a type of 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.
In the early 1700s, the Kutani kilns were closed, but about 80 years later they were opened and Kutani ware was revived.
The beauty of the various styles and methods of painting is known as "Japan Kutani" and is highly regarded around the world.
