Peony Arabesque Patterned Sake Set

This sake set, awash in gentle hues and adorned with meticulous brushwork, embodies the creative vision of Satomi Toshitaka. On the translucent white body of Mikawachi ware, he applies gosu—an indigo pigment central to the art of sometsuke—with a brush finer than a single hair, crafting vessels that radiate both heritage and serenity.

Satomi employs the celebrated sometsuke underglaze method in crafting this sake set. He meticulously paints the motifs on the bisqued base of the tokkuri sake carafe and sake cups. This foundational step defines the composition and prepares the surface for the tonal shading that follows.

Satomi’s use of tsukedami demonstrates his extraordinary control and sensitivity to form. Using a specially crafted, densely bristled brush, he loads the gosu and holds it steady and horizontal, allowing the color to seep into the bisqueware as if poured. Because the surface is highly absorbent, each stroke must be completed in a single, uninterrupted motion—only then can the subtle transitions and polished finish that define his work be achieved. Mastery of this technique requires not only a precise hand, but also years of dedicated practice.

Mikawachi ware is celebrated for its lightness and translucency, qualities that heighten every painted detail. Each line seems to pulse with life, lending the sake carafe’s graceful curves and the cups’ slender rims a natural, unforced harmony. Here, centuries‑old technique meets contemporary vision, and the simple act of pouring sake becomes a moment of contemplative elegance—ideal for aficionados who appreciate ritual and refinement.

Satomi Toshitaka

Satomi Toshitaka is the third-generation master of Kakusho Kiln. A descendant of kiln artisans who served the Hirado domain, he carries on the 350-year legacy of the kiln, specializing in the hand-painted sometsuke that defines Mikawachi ware.

Satomi remains faithful to the tradition of treating each piece as a unique work of art, while also embracing contemporary design sensibilities. In addition, he is engaged in the revival of refined tableware from the Meiji (1868–1912 CE) and Taisho (1912–1926 CE) eras, preserving and reinterpreting historical techniques for the present day.

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.