Crimson Sakura and Maple Leaf Decorative Plate

This exquisite plate celebrates Kyoto's seasonal elegance, featuring a vibrant composition of sakura in full bloom and vividly colored autumn maple leaves.

Known as the unkin motif, cherry blossoms symbolize drifting clouds and leaves resemble elaborate brocade patterns. Historically, this motif has been used to decorate tea ceremony utensils, embodying Japan's timeless appreciation for nature's fleeting splendor.

Expertly crafted, the surface's gentle contours introduce a dynamic sense of movement. Every detail is meticulously rendered using Touan's specialized underglaze painting method, embedding pigments beneath a protective transparent glaze. This technique amplifies the brilliance of each hue while ensuring durability against wear and fading.

Perfect as an interior decor piece or a thoughtful gift, this plate represents refined artistry and tradition, offering an enduring symbol of Kyoto's heritage and craftsmanship.

Touan

Founded in 1922, Touan is one of Kyoto's distinguished kilns specializing in Kyo ware and Kiyomizu ware. As one of the largest workshops in Kyoto, all stages of production are meticulously carried out by hand. Touan is dedicated to crafting exquisite, seasonally inspired designs, employing underglaze painting, where intricate colors are applied before glazing. This process ensures that each creation retains its delicate hues and is resistant to wear, embodying both beauty and durability.

Kyo ware and Kiyomizu ware, collectively known as Kyo-yaki or Kiyomizu-yaki, are esteemed crafts from Kyoto. Unlike other pottery styles, they integrate various techniques from across Japan, resulting in unique, handmade pieces. Each item is crafted meticulously, from shaping on the pottery wheel to intricate painting, showcasing exceptional modeling skills and delicate designs.

With a rich history intertwined with traditional Japanese culture, Kyo ware and Kiyomizu ware are celebrated for their refined artistry and elegance. Known for their vibrant and detailed paintings, they were officially recognized as a traditional craft by the Japanese government in 1977. Today, these ceramics are prized for their high artistic quality, embodying both historical craftsmanship and aesthetic sophistication.