Yoshidaya Mountain Cherry and Bird Matcha Bowl
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Yoshidaya Mountain Cherry and Bird Matcha Bowl
Indulge in a sensory experience with the Yoshidaya Mountain Cherry and Bird Matcha Bowl, a stunning piece of Kutani ware that embodies the rich heritage of Japanese pottery. This artisan-made chawan is not just a tea bowl; it’s a canvas of vibrant colors and intricate designs that showcase the delicate brushstrokes of skilled artisans. With a diameter of 4.7 inches (12 cm) and a height of 3.1 inches (8 cm), it fits perfectly in your hands, inviting you to savor each sip of your favorite matcha.
Symbolism and Aesthetics
Adorned with a mesmerizing depiction of a bird perched among cherry blossoms, this matcha bowl captures the transient beauty of nature—a theme deeply rooted in Japanese aesthetics. The striking yellow background enhances the colorful imagery, creating a visual feast that adds a touch of elegance to your tea rituals. This bowl isn’t just functional; it's a beautiful piece of home decor that sparks conversations and admiration.
Enhancing Daily Life
Crafted from high-quality ceramic, the Yoshidaya Matcha Bowl stands out not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its durability. Perfect for both traditional tea ceremonies and casual gatherings, it elevates your daily tea-drinking experience. l.
Gift Ready
This piece comes packaged in a beautifully crafted wooden box, making it an ideal gift for tea enthusiasts or collectors of Japanese ceramics. Please note that this item is fragile, so handle with care to preserve its beauty.
Whether you are a matcha lover or an admirer of fine craftsmanship, this bowl will undoubtedly enhance your tea experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to own a piece of Japanese heritage that combines functionality and artistry.
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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.