Blue Whale Small Plate
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Blue Whale Small Plate
Transform your dining table into a whimsical ocean paradise with the Blue Whale Small Plate. This charming piece, inspired by the tranquil beauty of the sea, is not just a plate—it's a conversation starter, a reminder of nature's wonders, and a testament to the timeless art of Japanese craftsmanship. Every meal becomes an experience steeped in artistry and tradition.
Masterfully Crafted from Authentic Mino Ware
Handcrafted in Mino, Gifu Prefecture, the Blue Whale Small Plate showcases over a thousand years of ceramic tradition. Made from high-quality porcelain, this plate boasts a water-repellent finish and a three-dimensional wave pattern that captures the fluidity of ocean waves. The glossy surface and slightly curved edges make this plate not only visually striking but also practical for everyday use. It's lightweight yet durable, ensuring it withstands the rigors of daily dining.
Enhance Your Everyday Dining
Measuring 4.7 inches (Φ12 cm) in diameter, the Blue Whale Small Plate is perfect for serving a variety of delicious treats—be it soy sauce, pickles, or bite-sized appetizers. The vibrant blue-and-white design, featuring a serene whale swimming through layered indigo waves, adds a playful touch to any meal. It’s especially delightful for sushi, tempura, or as an accent piece in a larger table setting.
Versatile and Playful Design
This plate is not just a dining utensil; it can also serve as a unique trinket dish for keys, rings, or tea bags. Its compact size makes it a versatile addition to your home decor, seamlessly blending with both Japanese and Western tableware. Whether you're enjoying a quiet breakfast or hosting a dinner party, this plate brings an element of joy and charm to the table.
A Thoughtful Gift for Any Occasion
The Blue Whale Small Plate makes for a perfect gift for friends and family who appreciate artisan-made ceramics and Japanese culture. Its enchanting design and quality craftsmanship will surely delight anyone who receives it. Share the beauty of the ocean and the elegance of Japanese artistry with your loved ones.
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Mino Ware – A Legacy of Japanese Ceramic Art
Mino ware (Minoyaki) is one of Japan’s oldest and most revered ceramic traditions, with roots stretching back over 1,300 years. Originating in the mountainous region of Gifu Prefecture, this pottery is celebrated not only for its rich history but also for the extraordinary craftsmanship that defines each piece.
Skilled artisans shape every bowl, cup, and plate by hand, using locally sourced clay and time-honored techniques passed down through generations. The unique glazing styles—from subtle earth tones to vibrant colors—are carefully applied and fired to create intricate textures, crackle patterns, and finishes that make each item one of a kind.
More than just tableware, Mino ware represents a deep connection to nature, simplicity, and the wabi-sabi aesthetic. Each piece is a quiet expression of balance—between utility and beauty, old and new. Whether used daily or saved for special moments, Mino ware brings the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship to your home.
FAQs
All you need to know about Japanese Mino Ware.
What is Mino ware?
Mino ware, or Minoyaki (美濃焼), refers to a traditional style of Japanese ceramics that originated in Gifu Prefecture over 1,300 years ago. It is one of Japan’s most prominent ceramic traditions and is known for its variety of styles, earthy aesthetics, and artisanal craftsmanship. Today, Mino ware accounts for the largest share of ceramic tableware production in Japan.
How is Mino ware made?
Each piece of Mino ware is handcrafted by skilled artisans using locally sourced clay. The process involves shaping the clay by hand or wheel, applying unique glazes, and firing it in kilns at high temperatures. The techniques used—such as Oribe, Shino, and Setoguro glazes—have been perfected over centuries to create the textures, colors, and finishes that define Mino ware.
What makes Mino ware different from other Japanese ceramics?
Unlike many other regional ceramics that follow a uniform aesthetic, Mino ware is known for its diversity. It encompasses over 15 officially recognized styles, ranging from rustic and natural to vibrant and contemporary. This flexibility makes Mino ware both deeply traditional and highly adaptable for modern use.
Is Mino ware safe for everyday use?
Yes, authentic Mino ware is made from food-safe materials and is generally safe for everyday dining. Most Mino ware sold today is microwave and dishwasher compatible, but because of its handcrafted nature, gentle handwashing is often recommended to preserve the glaze and texture.
Why is Mino ware valued by collectors and designers?
Collectors and interior designers appreciate Mino ware for its authenticity, heritage, and aesthetic depth. Each piece embodies the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi—beauty in imperfection—and offers a unique tactile and visual experience. The handcrafted nature of Mino ware ensures no two pieces are exactly alike, making them functional works of art.