Akae Six Gourds Side Plate
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Shaped with a delicate, flower-like rim, this side plate carries an elegant presence. Six gourds encircle the rim, a traditional motif connected to mubyo sokusai, expressing the hope for enduring health and harmony in daily life. At the center, the character fuku (福), drawn in a historic script style, is rendered in blue underglaze, invoking good fortune at the table.
The fine red lines are drawn in akae, using Zoho Kiln’s specially developed natural bengara pigment.
The gently raised rim makes it perfect for small servings of simmered or braised dishes, or for use as an individual serving plate. Designed to stack neatly, it is a reassuring choice for both everyday family meals and gatherings with guests.
DETAILS
| Quantity | 1 |
| Size | D 14.5 cm (5.7 in) x H 2.5 cm (1.0 in) |
| Weight | 170 g (6.0 oz) |
| Material | Porcelain |
| Package Type | Paper box |
| Microwave | Yes |
| Dishwasher | Yes |
Maker / Brand
Zoho Kiln, located in Tajimi City, Gifu Prefecture, is a renowned producer of Mino ware. While their designs are inspired by seasonal flowers and traditional patterns, they also focus on the practical beauty of their pieces, ensuring ease of use and graceful presentation.
Zoho Kiln places particular importance on bengara, the distinctive red pigment used in their akae, or overglaze red enamel, designs. The rich red hue that adorns their pottery deepens in character and becomes even more beautiful with time and use, enhancing the aesthetic experience.
Crafts
Mino ware, crafted in Gifu Prefecture's Tono region, is renowned among Japanese pottery for its rich heritage and versatility. It features over fifteen distinct styles, making it more varied than many other Japanese ceramics.
Now accounting for over 50 percent of Japan's ceramic production, its popularity is unmatched. Designated as a traditional craft in 1978, Mino ware reflects a blend of historical depth and modern relevance, exemplifying exceptional craftsmanship.
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Side Plates
Bring a sense of quality to your table with our collection of Japanese side plates, expertly crafted by artisans from all across Japan. A key element of an authentic Japanese table setting, the small plates in our selection are curated to fit any aesthetic, from cute and bright to classic and refined. These dishes showcase appetizers, snacks, breads, sweets, and side dishes like tofu, salad, tsukemono (Japanese pickles), or even sashimi, all served with style and ease.
This category features plates with diameters ranging from 13–20.9 cm (5.1–8.2 in).
Akae
Akae, or red painting, is an overglaze decoration that primarily uses red, complemented by colors such as green, purple and blue. In China, this style originated during the Song Dynasty (960 CE–1279 CE), while in Japan, it was introduced by Sakaida Kakiemon during the Shoho era (1644 CE–1648 CE) and later found its place in Kutani ware.
In Kutani porcelain, akae-saibyo is particularly famous. Akae-saibyo literally means "fine painting in red." Using an extremely fine brush, each line is drawn on the surface of the vessel with exquisite detail, creating breathtakingly intricate patterns.
