Platinum Kitamaebune Ornamental Plate

This ornamental plate features an intricate depiction of kitamaebune "merchant ships" setting sail during the cherry blossom season, rendered with delicate brushwork and rich color characteristics. The background is adorned with a dense pattern of red swirls against a platinum base. The artist, Kitamura Takashi, uses platinum to ensure that the background in the artwork remains perpetually luminous.  The back of the plate is also meticulously decorated with traditional Japanese patterns known as takarazukushi, a “collection of treasures” that carry auspicious meanings.

Kitamaebune were merchant ships that operated between the mid-Edo period (1603 CE–1868 CE) and the late Meiji era (1868 CE–1912 CE), transporting goods along the Sea of Japan. During a time when navigation technology was not advanced, embarking on sea voyages required immense courage. Sailors often set off in the spring, when cherry blossoms were in full bloom, with no certainty of when they would return home. 

One of the most captivating aspects of Kutani ware is its vibrant colors. The artist, Kitamura Takashi, inspired by ko-Kutani ware, uses his research and color-mixing techniques to depict a vibrant seascape with the Kutani go-sai "five colors." The detailed ship structures, blooming cherry blossoms, waves beneath the ship, and the delicate swirls in the background come together to form a harmonious and magnificent composition.

The entire scene depicts the rear view of a departing merchant ship. Through this composition, the artist vividly embodies the spirit of seafaring, conveying the beautiful symbolism of embarking on a new journey in spring. The artist powerfully expresses the courage to move boldly forward into the unknown by illustrating the figures of people setting out to explore the future.

Some cherry blossoms appear before the sails while others are behind, capturing the beautiful scene of cherry blossoms in full bloom during spring and conveying a sense of depth and space. The platinum background, largely covered by red swirls, gives a pinkish impression that harmonizes perfectly with the warm ambiance of spring.In Japan, spring is known as the season of encounters and farewells, often marking significant milestones in life. During this time, people filled with hopeful expectations for their future embark on new journeys. This ornamental plate allows viewers to feel the romantic spirit of courageously exploring the future.