Table Setting #122 
An Onigiri Lunch with Comforting Kutani Ware   

One of the most beloved and iconic food items in Japan,  the "onigiri" is a simple lightly salted rice ball with fillings, and is often served as a snack, a quick lunch, or is included in a packed lunch. But by plating it on a lustrous lacquerware plate and serving it with additional dishes on beautifully crafted Kutani ware, you can create an appetizing Japanese style meal.

Contents

• Add Comfort and Elegance with Kutani Ware
• Dressing Up the Onigiri 
• The Perfect Finish
• Featured Items

Key points of this table setting

1. Add Comfort and Elegance with Kutani Ware

The warm, rich colors of Kutani ware create a delightful atmosphere over the dining table. The intricate designs on each item gracefully add patterns, and light onto the soft beige table top. Kutani ware in vibrant colors like the serving bowl with stunning camellias,  brings life to menus in muted shades such as the stewed vegetables. 

The serving plate for the fried chicken is shaped in a floral design like a chrysanthemum which is called "Kikuwari (divided like chrysanthemum petals)." The elegant form is fitting with the fanned lacquerware bowl.

For an added dose of comfort, small wooden trays are ideal companions to the casual teacups. Chopsticks and chopstick rests with delicate gold accents provide a hint of grandeur to our lunch setting. 

2. Dressing Up Onigiri

Onigiri is a beloved delicacy among the people of Japan, regularly enjoyed as a snack, and packed in bento boxes. Plated on a lustrous lacquerware plate, onigiri can also be a wonderful staple dish served at a relaxing lunch. Bringing out the vibrant white of the rice grains, we chose black sesame seeds as the topping for our triangle-shaped onigiri. Finishing the look, a "haran (a non-edible bamboo leaf)" garnish was placed under the onigiri, and slices of Japanese-style omelet were added. These small details give the simple snack an exquisite presentation fit for fine dining.

3. The Perfect Finish

The ALART Aluminum Round Window Frame Single Flower Vase provides the perfect finish to this basic and modest table setting, giving a light and airy feel that only ALART vases can achieve. A combination of three materials makes this piece an aesthetically pleasing work of art. The juxtaposition of these elements produces a truly stunning effect when blended together on a table.

The next time you plan a traditional Japanese meal, why not try serving some onigiri? Not only are they simple to make, but they are also incredibly tasty! To add an extra touch of style and elegance, use Kutani ware to set the table. It will provide a lovely accompaniment for your delectable onigiri plate.

Featured Items

Kutani Ware

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 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.