Mitsui Tamekichi Plum-Shaped Dragon Guinomi Sake Cup
This guinomi sake cup, crafted in the revered ko-Kutani style, blends Japan's rich cultural legacy with artistic sophistication. The cup is meticulously adorned with a hand-painted dragon and traditional seigaiha "wave patterns," symbolizing a union of strength and serenity. The exterior is painted in vermillion and decorated with pine needles, which symbolize longevity. The plum shape of the cup adds an element of delight, making it perfect for special occasions and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the piece.
Made by Mitsui Tamekichi, a master of Kutani ware's exquisite porcelain artistry, this guinomi sake cup captures the philosophical depth that Kutani ware portrays through depictions of nature, embraced by the samurai class during the Edo period (1603 CE–1868 CE). Each cup is a hand-painted masterpiece, designed to enchant and inspire admiration across generations with its vivid narrative and artistic excellence.
PRODUCT DETAIL
- Dimension: D 6.3cm (2.5 in) x H 3.5 cm (1.4 in)
- Material: Porcelain
- Origin: Made in Japan - Kutani ware
- Brand: Mitsui Tamekichi
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The dragon and seigaiha wave patterns painted on this guinomi sake cup come to life when sake is poured into it, enhancing the liveliness of the design. Mitsui Tamekichi's mastery of vibrant color balance and delicate brushwork allows even this small piece to embody the essence of ko-Kutani. It is a truly special item that captures the depth of this traditional style.
MITSUI TAMEKICHI
Mitsui Tamekichi, an established name in the exquisite porcelain artistry of Kutani ware, stands as a symbol of Japan's rich cultural heritage, vibrantly captured through its polychrome palette of Kutani gosai “five colors": red, yellow, purple, navy blue, and green. Under the stewardship of Mitsui Tamekichi the third, this family kiln honors generations of meticulous craftsmanship, weaving detailed, hand-painted designs that exemplify the masterful balance of color and space in the ko-Kutani painting style.
With Mitsui Tatsuya poised as the successor, the kiln’s legacy is set to continue, merging reverence for its historical depth with a vision for innovation. Tatsuya's evolution from apprentice to a recognized Traditional Craftsperson, under the tutelage of his father, encapsulates a commitment to excellence and the preservation of the enchanting beauty of Kutani ware. The timeless allure of Mitsui Tamekichi’s Kutani ware remains a celebrated and cherished art form.
