A Hand-Painted Arita Plate That Elevates Every Meal

Product Description

Experience the art of dining with the Shochiku Bai Square Plate, an exquisite piece of Japanese tableware from the renowned Arita region. This hand-painted plate is not merely functional but a canvas of craftsmanship, showcasing unique blue floral patterns on a pristine white backdrop. Each plate is a distinct creation, adding a touch of artistry to your dining table that transcends mere decoration.

Artisan Craftsmanship

Measuring approximately 7.9 x 7.9 x 1.0 inches (20 x 20 x 2.5 cm) and weighing about 1.1 pounds (510 g), this porcelain square plate is perfect for presenting everything from delicate sashimi to hearty sandwiches. The subtle color variations in its hand-painted design create a captivating visual texture, ensuring that every meal feels special. Its square shape with rounded corners offers a contemporary edge that seamlessly pairs with your favorite dishes.

Functional Elegance

Practicality meets sophistication with the Shochiku Bai Square Plate, as it is both dishwasher and microwave-safe, suited for daily use while not intended for the oven. Whether adorning your table during intimate dinners or larger gatherings, this plate enhances the presentation of your culinary delights, ensuring that each meal is a joyous occasion filled with aesthetic pleasure.

Cultural Heritage

Crafted at the Arita Ware Daikei kiln, celebrated for over 140 years, this plate embodies a legacy of exceptional craftsmanship. Every time you use this plate, you connect with the artistry that defines Arita ware, making it a meaningful addition to your collection or a thoughtful gift choice. Each piece arrives beautifully packaged, ready to impress and enrich someone's dining rituals.

Product Information

- Dimensions: Approx. 7.9 in x 7.9 in x 1 in / 20 cm x 20 cm x 2.5 cm
- Weight: Approx. 1.1 lb / 510 g
- Material: Porcelain
- Made inJapan
- Care Instructions: Dishwasher safe, microwave safe; not oven safe

Care instructions

**Care Instructions for Shochiku Bai Square Plate**

- Gently hand wash with mild detergent and a soft sponge to maintain the plate's beauty.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they may scratch the surface.
- Safe for microwave use; however, do not place in the oven.
- Allow to cool before washing to prevent thermal shock.
- Store in a dry place, ideally stacked with protective padding between pieces to prevent chipping.
- Embrace the uniqueness of each hand-painted design, ensuring proper care preserves its elegance and craftsmanship for years to come.

Note

Handcrafted one by one by master Japanese artisans, each piece embodies centuries of refined technique. Its slight variations in color, glaze, and form are intentional markers of authenticity, revealing the artist's individuality and the natural firing process.
These nuances make every item a singular work of art.
Your piece is not just handmade—it is genuinely unique, carrying the depth, beauty, and soul of traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

Questions & Answers

Why is this plate square instead of round?
Square plates are often used in Japanese dining to create visual contrast on the table, making dishes feel more intentional and beautifully framed.
How does the Shochiku-bai motif enhance this design?
The pine, bamboo, and plum motif adds quiet symbolism beneath a clean, structured shape—balancing tradition with a modern aesthetic.
What types of dishes work best on this plate?
It’s ideal for appetizers, desserts, wagashi, sushi, or carefully plated side dishes where presentation matters.
Does this plate work well with modern table settings?
Yes. The square form pairs naturally with contemporary and minimalist tableware, while the traditional motif adds warmth and cultural depth.
Is this a good choice for gifting or entertaining?
Absolutely. Its elegant shape and auspicious design make it a refined choice for hosting guests or giving as a thoughtful, meaningful gift.

The Signature Beauty of Arita Ware

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.