Chopstick Rest Old Kutani (5 pieces) Chopstick Rest Old Kutani (5 pieces)
Chopstick Rest Old Kutani (5 pieces) Chopstick Rest Old Kutani (5 pieces)
Chopstick Rest Old Kutani (5 pieces) Chopstick Rest Old Kutani (5 pieces)

Chopstick Rest Old Kutani (5 pieces)

$59.00

Elevate your dining experience with this set of five Old Kutani chopstick rests, each a testament to traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Crafted from high-quality ceramic, these rests feature intricate patterns in vibrant hues of red, green, yellow, purple, and navy blue, inspired by nature's beauty and artistic expression.

Perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your table setting, they not only protect your surfaces but also serve as conversation starters. Delight in the rich heritage of Kutani ware, where each piece is a small masterpiece, hand-turned and thoughtfully designed.

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Product Description

Transform your dining experience with our Chopstick Rest Old Kutani set, a stunning collection of five beautifully handcrafted pieces that exude the artistry of traditional Japanese pottery. Each rest is adorned with vibrant patterns created using five colors: red, green, yellow, purple, and navy blue. These intricate designs feature delicate brushstrokes that depict natural elements such as flowers, birds, and landscapes, inviting a serene atmosphere to your table.

Artisan-Made Quality for Everyday Use

Handcrafted in Japan, each chopstick rest showcases the skill and dedication of seasoned artisans who have perfected their craft over generations. The fine ceramic material not only offers durability but also provides a smooth, pleasant texture. The unique aesthetics of Kutani ware enhance your home decor, making each meal a celebration of culture and beauty.

Beyond their visual appeal, these chopstick rests serve a practical purpose, keeping your chopsticks elevated and off the table, ensuring cleanliness and elegance during your dining experience. The thoughtful design reflects a deep respect for Japanese artistry, allowing you to incorporate a piece of history into your daily life.

Cultural Significance and Practicality

Kutani ware has been celebrated for centuries, and its legacy continues to inspire modern dining aesthetics. Using these artisan-made chopstick rests not only enriches your meals but also connects you to a rich cultural tradition. Each piece is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into creating Kutani pottery, making it a perfect gift for those who appreciate the beauty of Japanese culture.

Care Instructions and Packaging

Please handle these delicate chopstick rests with care, as they are fragile. Each set comes beautifully packaged in a presentation box, making it an ideal gift for special occasions or a charming addition to your own dining collection. 

Product Information
  • Material: Ceramic
  • Dimensions: Approx. 4.5 in x 1.5 in / 11.4 cm x 3.8 cm (each rest)
  • Weight: Approx. 1.5 oz / 42 g (each rest)
  • Packaging: Presentation box

Made in Japan

Care instructions
  • Gently wipe with a soft, damp cloth after each use to preserve the intricate patterns.
  • Do not place in the dishwasher or microwave; these items are not designed for high temperatures or harsh cleaning methods.
  • Keep in a dry place, ideally in the provided presentation box, to avoid chipping or scratching.
  • As a fragile ceramic item, please handle with care to prevent breakage.
Note

The Chopstick Rest Old Kutani (5 pieces) is a beautifully artisan-made collection that celebrates the craftsmanship of traditional pottery.

Each piece is uniquely hand-crafted, which means that slight differences and imperfections may occur, adding to its charm and character.

These variations are not flaws; instead, they are a testament to the skilled artisans who poured their creativity and heart into every detail. Embrace the individuality of your Chopstick Rest Old Kutani, knowing that each piece tells its own story.

FAQs

All you need to know about Japanese Arita Ware.

What makes Kutani ware different from other Japanese ceramics?

Kutani ware is instantly recognizable for its vivid overglaze enamels—greens, reds, blues, yellows, and purples—painted in bold, layered designs. Unlike many regional wares that rely on clay texture or natural glazes, Kutani emphasizes ornamental artistry. Each piece is hand-painted after firing, then fired again at a lower temperature to fuse the enamel. This two-step process creates the signature glossy, high-contrast look unmatched by other Japanese styles.

Is Kutani ware safe to use with food, sauces, and liquids?

Yes. Modern Kutani ware is food-safe and meets Japan’s strict ceramic safety standards. The bright overglaze enamels may look delicate, but they are formulated using lead-free, cadmium-free pigments suitable for tableware. After application, they are re-fired to create a stable, sealed surface. As long as the piece is contemporary and intended for functional use (not antique), it is safe for soy sauce, oils, vinegar, and daily dining.

Why are Kutani colors so bright, and do they fade over time?

Kutani’s signature brilliance comes from metal-oxide-based overglaze pigments, carefully applied in layers to achieve depth and luminosity. After the second firing, the colors are fused into a glassy enamel surface. Under normal use, they do not fade, even after decades. However, prolonged exposure to strong acidic cleaners or harsh scrubbing can dull the enamel. Gentle handwashing is recommended for preserving clarity and shine.

How is Kutani ware made in the Kaga region today?

Artisans in Ishikawa’s Kaga area follow a blend of traditional and modern methods. Local porcelain stone (hakusan-ishi) is shaped, bisque-fired, and coated with a clear base glaze. Once fired to porcelain hardness, painters add the characteristic Gosai-de (Five Colors) palette or detailed motifs such as birds, landscapes, or geometric patterns. After painting, pieces undergo a second firing around 800°C to set the overglaze. Many workshops still rely on individual brushwork, ensuring each item is one-of-a-kind.

Is Kutani ware suitable for everyday use or mainly for display?

Kutani ware is durable enough for daily use, particularly for items such as plates, mugs, and sauce dispensers. The porcelain body is non-porous and resistant to staining, making it ideal for use with soy sauce and other strong-flavored seasonings. However, because the overglaze decoration sits on the surface (unlike underglaze ceramics), it’s best to avoid dishwashers and microwaves unless the maker specifically states they are safe. Many collectors use Kutani both as functional tableware and as decorative art due to its vibrant, expressive aesthetic.