Shonzui-De Waves and Treasure Side Plate

This side plate is a magnificent example of the artistry found in Mikawachi ware, featuring hand-painted designs in blue on fine, durable porcelain. The rim of the plate is adorned with the geometric patterns of shonzui-de waves, a style influenced by the porcelain patterns originally produced in Jingdezhen kilns during the late Ming Dynasty. 

At the center of the plate is a beautifully rendered takara zukushi "treasure painting." This auspicious Japanese motif symbolizes good fortune and includes various auspicious items such as the nyoihoju "a wish-fulfilling jewel," scrolls representing wisdom and knowledge, a fan symbolizing victory, an old-style purse, and the uchide no kozuchi "a magical mallet." 

The shades of blue in the shonzui-de waves and the treasure painting display an exquisite gradation, painted carefully by skilled craftspeople using brushes soaked in cobalt pigment. This technique allows the dye to flow naturally onto the porcelain, creating a gentle and soft shade of blue as it "sinks" into the clay. The outlines of the waves and the elements in the treasure painting are drawn swiftly with precision and care, using soft and fine brushes to capture their contours and intricate details.

These hand-painted blue paintings on the plate will certainly enhance the presentation of any dish. Whether it's sushi, sashimi, or tempura, you can enjoy the serenity and elegance of Japanese blue and white porcelain with this unique piece.

Kakusho Kiln

A historically presitigious kiln which used to serve the lordship of Hirado Domain in the Edo Period (1600 CE-1867 CE). Kakusho Kiln has passed on the traditional art of Blue and White for more than 300 years.

The light-weight and elegant porcelain smooth to the touch. The soft and gentle shade of blue kind to the eye. 

Mikawachi ware, also known as Hirado ware, is a pottery made in Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan. Known for its translucent white porcelain, it was highly popular in Europe during the trend toward Japanese crafts in the West in the 20th century. Mikawachi ware is remarkable for its delicate modeling techniques that push the limits of porcelain, such as openwork and relief carving, and for its beautiful painting that looks like a single piece of art.