Two Rabbits and Treasure Boat

This home decoration takes the form of an auspicious treasure boat, known as takarabune, featuring two rabbits, a symbol of good fortune.

A treasure boat is a mythical vessel said to carry the Seven Gods of Good Fortune along with gold, silver, and other treasures during the first three days of the New Year. It is a highly auspicious motif in Japanese culture. The rabbits depicted on this treasure boat symbolize calmness and gentle warmth.

The most eye-catching feature of this piece is the intricately painted mast, adorned with the Japanese character for “treasure.” On board, one rabbit holds a bundle of rice plants, representing a bountiful harvest, while a lucky mallet (kozuchi) rests in the center, believed to grant wishes with a single shake. The boat itself is beautifully decorated with gold and floral patterns, while bright blue waves surround it.

The detailed patterns on the mast and boat are created using the traditional mori-e technique, similar to slip trailing. A thick paint is squeezed from an icchin, a dispenser with a fine tip, and carefully applied to form raised decorative patterns.

This treasure boat is displayed on a wooden tray with a red felt cloth, enhancing its auspicious presence. A wooden plate accompanies it, inscribed with Japanese calligraphy. A wonderful home decor item to bring good fortune and add a festive atmosphere to any space.

Choho Kiln

Chosaku Nishi, 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 out, the Mori-e technique suited Kutani Ware figurines very well, and henceforth Mori-e became the mainstream decorating technique for Kutani Ware figurines.

The second generation Choho 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 is committed to preserving the tradition of Mori-e while seeking out new possibilities for this traditional technique.

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.