Arita Ware Zodiac Plates

Product Description

Step into a world of tradition and elegance with the Arita Ware Zodiac Plates from Taishigama's "Kissho Zodiac" series. Each plate is not just a piece of tableware but a celebration of Japanese craftsmanship, embodying the rich history of Kutani ware. Handcrafted in Japan, these porcelain plates feature an octagonal design that symbolizes the eight cardinal directions and is believed to ward off evil spirits while attracting good fortune. This auspicious shape, known as “Hakke” in Feng Shui, brings a sense of harmony and positivity to your home.

Versatile and Thoughtful Gift Options

These stunning plates, measuring 5.4 inches in diameter and 1.1 inches in height (13.6 cm x 2.8 cm), are ideal for a variety of occasions. Whether you are celebrating a wedding, commemorating a birthday, or honoring the elderly, these plates make for thoughtful gifts that convey love and respect. They are perfect for housewarming celebrations, retirement parties, or as a delightful addition to your own home decor. Each of the 12 Zodiac signs is represented, allowing you to choose a plate that resonates with the recipient’s astrological identity.

Every Detail Matters

The porcelain material not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also ensures durability, making these plates suitable for both special occasions and everyday use. Each plate comes beautifully packaged in a cosmetic box, making it ready for gifting straight out of the box. Embrace the uniqueness of each piece; please note that individual differences in pattern placement and color shading may occur, adding to the charm of your one-of-a-kind plate.

Transform your tea time experience with these beautifully designed Arita Ware Zodiac Plates that blend function and artistry. Perfect for enhancing your table setting, they also serve as conversation starters, inviting guests to share in the stories behind the Zodiac signs. Celebrate life's milestones with a piece that connects you to the rich traditions of Japanese pottery.

Product Information

Diameter: 5.4 in / 13.6 cm
Height: 1.1 in / 2.8 cm
Material: Porcelain
Packaging: Cosmetic box

Made in Saga Prefecture, Japan

Care instructions

Gently wipe clean with a soft, damp cloth after each use.
Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads to preserve the surface.
Do not place in the dishwasher or microwave; hand wash only.
Store in a dry environment, ideally in the provided cosmetic box, to protect from dust and damage.
Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent color fading.

Note

Each Arita Ware Zodiac Plate is individually hand-painted by artisans in Japan. As a result, subtle variations in brushwork, color tone, and pattern placement naturally occur from piece to piece. These differences are not flaws but a hallmark of genuine craftsmanship, making every plate truly one of a kind. No two are ever exactly alike—each carries the unique touch of the artist who created it.

Arita – The Birthplace of Japanese Porcelain

Tucked into the mountains of Saga Prefecture, the small town of Arita is where Japan’s porcelain story began. In the early 1600s, kaolin clay was discovered here, enabling the creation of Japan’s first true porcelain—now known as Arita Ware (有田焼).

What followed was a renaissance of ceramic artistry that blended Japanese aesthetics with global influence, as Arita’s wares reached Europe and beyond. Today, Arita remains a living kiln town where centuries-old techniques are passed down and reimagined by modern artisans. Walking its streets is like stepping into a history shaped by fire, craftsmanship, and the enduring spirit of creativity.

Arita Ware – Precision, Purity, and Painted Elegance

Arita Ware (有田焼) is celebrated for its refined porcelain body, flawless white surface, and intricate hand-painted designs. Early pieces featured indigo underglaze cobalt blue, while later innovations introduced vibrant overglaze enamels in red, green, and gold—creating richly layered, timeless motifs.
The porcelain is exceptionally thin yet durable, fired at high temperatures for a smooth, luminous finish. Traditional Arita pieces often showcase nature, landscapes, and geometric harmony, rooted in Japanese aesthetics with subtle Chinese and European influences.
From classical symmetry to bold contemporary forms, Arita ceramics are the epitome of technical mastery and artistic expression—designed to be admired, cherished, and used.

FAQs

All you need to know about Japanese Arita Ware.

What makes Arita Ware (有田焼) different from other Japanese ceramics?

Arita Ware is Japan’s first porcelain, known for its pure white clay body, high-temperature firing, and finely detailed painting. Unlike earthy stoneware like Bizen or Shigaraki, Arita porcelain is smooth, delicate, and often decorated with underglaze blue or overglaze polychrome enamels. It combines technical precision with elegant, often symmetrical designs.

Where is Arita Ware made?

Authentic Arita Ware is crafted in and around the town of Arita in Saga Prefecture, Kyushu. Nearby towns such as Imari and Ureshino also contribute to production. While some pieces are labeled "Imari Ware," the kiln origin remains Arita.

Is Arita Ware suitable for daily use or just for display?

Many Arita pieces are made for everyday use—teacups, plates, and sake sets—thanks to their durability and fine craftsmanship. Modern Arita artisans create tableware that blends beauty with functionality, making it perfect for both use and display.

Are Arita Ware pieces all hand-painted?

High-end and traditional Arita Ware is hand-painted by skilled artisans, often using brushes made from animal hair. However, some modern lines incorporate transfer printing to offer more accessible price points, while still maintaining artistic quality and local production.

How can I identify genuine Arita Ware?

Look for markings such as “有田焼” or stamps from well-known kilns in Arita. Genuine pieces typically come with a certificate or box identifying the studio. Purchase from trusted retailers such as My Japanese World who specialize in Japanese ceramics to ensure authenticity.