Gold Leaf Kutani Ware Sake Set

Product Description

Indulge in the rich tradition of Japanese pottery with our stunning Gold Leaf Kutani Sake Set. This beautifully handcrafted set encapsulates the essence of Japanese culture, inviting warmth and artistry into your home. Each piece, from the tokkuri (sake pitcher) to the sake cups, showcases intricate patterns that tell stories of nature and heritage, making every sip a celebration.

Artisan Craftsmanship

Inspired by centuries-old techniques, this Kutani ware set is a testament to the skill of Japanese artisans. Each piece is meticulously crafted from high-quality ceramic and features vibrant colors in red, green, yellow, purple, and dark blue. The brushstrokes dance across the surface, depicting everything from delicate flowers and graceful birds to serene landscapes and geometric designs. This level of artistry not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also connects you to the rich narrative of Japanese craftsmanship.

Enhancing Your Sake Moments

With a tokkuri capacity of 350ml (approximately 12 oz) and sake cups measuring 2.2 inches in diameter and 1.6 inches in height, this set is perfect for intimate gatherings or personal enjoyment. The tactile experience of holding these beautifully crafted pieces adds a layer of joy to your sake-drinking rituals. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening, this sake set transforms an ordinary moment into an extraordinary experience.

Thoughtful Packaging and Care

Each Gold Leaf Kutani Sake Set is presented in an elegant cosmetic box, making it a perfect gift for loved ones or a delightful treat for yourself. Please note that, due to its fragility, careful handling is essential to preserve its beauty. This set is not just a collection of items; it’s a piece of art that you can incorporate into your daily life.

Product Information
  • Dimensions:
    - Tokkuri: Diameter 5.5 cm / 2.2 in
    - Cup: Height 4 cm / 1.6 in
  • Capacity: 350 ml / 11.8 fl oz
  • Material: Ceramic
  • Packaging: Cosmetic box

Made in Japan

Care instructions
  • Gently wipe clean with a soft, damp cloth after each use.
  • Avoid using abrasive sponges or harsh chemicals to preserve the delicate surface.
  • Do not place in the dishwasher or microwave; hand wash only.
  • Store in a dry place, ideally in the provided cosmetic box, to protect from damage.
  • Keep away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight to maintain vibrancy.
Note

Elevate your drinking experience with the Gold Leaf Kutani Sake Set, a stunning artisan-made collection that celebrates the beauty of handcrafted artistry. Each piece is meticulously created by skilled artisans, ensuring that no two sets are exactly alike. Embrace the unique differences and charming imperfections that may occur; these are not flaws, but rather the distinctive character and personality that make your Gold Leaf Kutani Sake Set truly one-of-a-kind. Enjoy your sake in a vessel that tells a story and adds a touch of elegance to every gathering.

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.