Kitamura Takashi Platinum Kitamaebune Ornamental Plate 12.6 in
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.
PRODUCT DETAIL
- Dimension: D 32.0 cm (12.6 in) x H 6 cm (2.7 in)
- Material: Porcelain
- Origin: Made in Japan - Kutani ware
- Artist: Kitamura Takashi
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The large sails of the merchant ship dominate the composition, with the inward-curving lower edges of the sails capturing the invisible force of the tailwind with dynamic brushstrokes. In Japanese, the phrase "順風満帆" literally translates to “tailwinds blowing on the whole sail.” The expressions and actions of the sailors on the ship are meticulously depicted—some gaze into the distance, others engage in conversation—all of them filled with the excitement of exploring an unknown journey.
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.
In the artist's depiction, 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.
Kitamura takashi
Kitamura Takashi, born in 1946 in Ishikawa Prefecture, is a renowned Kutani ware artist, celebrated for his work inspired by Japan's maritime history, especially the kitamaebune ships. Notably, he collaborated with Michael Jackson during his tour in Japan. Kitamura has been honored with numerous awards, both in Japan and internationally, including the Japan Traditional Craft Exhibition Prize, and recognition at the Faenza International Ceramics Competition.
His international achievements extend to exhibitions in Singapore and France, and contributions to cultural exchanges, such as the 30th Anniversary of the Sister City Relations between New York and Tokyo. Kitamura's art, primarily focusing on ships from the Edo period (1603 CE–1868 CE), captures themes of bravery, perseverance, and the poignant beauty of departure. His work stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of Japanese heritage.
