Stone Pavement Kutani Chopstick Rest (Pair)
Fast & Secure Delivery from Japan to your Door [Shipping Policy]
Shop Safely with Encrypted Checkout and Verified Gateways.
Pairs well with
Stone Pavement Kutani Chopstick Rest (Pair)
Pair of Stone Pavement Kutani Ware Chopstick Rests
Transform your dining experience with the Stone Pavement Kutani Chopstick Rest, a delicate piece of functional art that embodies centuries of Japanese craftsmanship. Each chopstick rest is handcrafted in Japan, showcasing the unique aesthetic of Kutani ware, a revered pottery tradition known for its vibrant colors and intricate designs. The patterns are meticulously applied using five colors—red, green, yellow, purple, and navy blue—bringing life to your table with imagery inspired by nature, including flowers, birds, and landscapes.
Every Detail Matters
Measuring 2.5 cm in depth and 6.3 cm in width (approximately 1 inch by 2.5 inches), this porcelain chopstick rest is lightweight yet sturdy enough for everyday use. The smooth, cool surface invites touch, while the carefully crafted shapes add an air of sophistication to your home decor. Each piece is a testament to the skill required in potter's wheel techniques, making it not just a kitchen accessory but a conversation starter that reflects your appreciation for artisanal craftsmanship.
Enhancing Your Dining Experience
Imagine the warmth of a shared meal enhanced by the beauty of your table setting. The Stone Pavement Kutani Chopstick Rest does more than hold your chopsticks; it elevates your dining atmosphere, making every meal feel special. Whether you’re enjoying sushi with friends or a quiet dinner at home, this chopstick rest brings a touch of Japanese elegance to your dining experience. It’s more than a practical item; it’s a piece of culture that invites appreciation and admiration.
Care and Presentation
This fragile item comes beautifully packaged in a presentation box, making it an ideal gift for those who cherish the art of dining. Please handle it with care to preserve its beauty and integrity. With its rich heritage and artistic details, the Stone Pavement Kutani Chopstick Rest is perfect for anyone looking to infuse their home with a touch of Japanese artistry.
Product Information
Care instructions
Note
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.