Yazaemon Somenishiki Kotobuki Pattern Kobachi Bowl with Lid

This bowl is a beautifully decorated item reflecting the high-quality craftsmanship handed down for generations within Arita Porcelain Lab's long history. The technique displayed in this bowl is called somenishiki where the bowl is first glazed with white and blue patterns and then is further decorated with detailed hand painted drawings. 

The character in a circle seen on the side of the bowl is the character "kotobuki." This character is used on happy, auspicious occasions and is also the used to express long life. The other detailed drawings such as the bamboos and Japanese plum trees are all auspicious patterns used in Japan. 

The size of the bowl was made to serve desserts that go well with Japanese tea. But this hand size bowl with the lid could be used in many other dining situations. It could be used for Japanese style warm dishes with a sauce or a glaze. You could also use it to serve a small serving of warm noodles or rice. With a short footing on the bottom, it is easy to hold and easy to stack.