Kohiki Side Plate

This side plate was made using the kohiki technique, meaning “powder pull” in Japanese. This method involves coating a darker clay base with a layer of white liquid clay slip to create a soft, matte finish. Brown hues from the darker clay peek through the milky-white surface, adding depth and giving the piece an earthy, rustic character. Each kohiki piece is handmade, so no two are exactly alike. With use and time, its surface develops a unique patina, giving the plate a special, one-of-a-kind character while embodying the wabi-sabi aesthetic.

Ideal for salads, appetizers, sashimi, or small servings shared at the table, this side plate has some depth, making it the perfect choice for dishes with broth. Its natural appearance pairs effortlessly with a wide variety of cuisines, from traditional Japanese dishes to Western fare. Perfect for impressing guests or recreating cherished restaurant dining experiences at home, this side plate adds a touch of rustic charm to any table.

Kokuzou Kiln

Nestled at the foot of Mt. Kokuzou in Ishikawa Prefecture, Kokuzou Kiln creates distinctive pottery rooted in a deep respect for handmade craftsmanship. Its pieces are known for individual forms and warm, tactile surfaces. Among its varied works are kohiki pieces, in which darker clay is coated with white slip, allowing traces of the clay beneath to show through the milky surface. One of the few Kutani ware kilns with an integrated production system, it carries out every stage in-house, from forming the clay to painting and firing.

Made to be enjoyed in everyday life, these pieces find a place at breakfast, during a break at work, or over a shared meal with loved ones. Kokuzou Kiln’s creations are designed to become cherished companions for years to come.

Kutani ware is a traditional Japanese porcelain from the Kaga region in Ishikawa Prefecture, with a history spanning over 350 years. Known for its vibrant overglaze enamel designs and use of five signature colors, known as Kutani gosai—navy blue, red, purple, green, and yellow pigments. This timeless craft has continuously evolved through generations of artisans who balance innovation with a deep respect for tradition. 

Kutani ware exhibits a diverse range of distinctive styles, shaped by evolving artistic tastes over the centuries. Styles such as ko-Kutani, with its bold colors, geometric patterns, and painterly detail, and akae-saibyo, marked by ultra-fine red lines. Many pieces feature traditional Japanese motifs, such as kacho (flowers and birds) and sansui (landscapes), offering a timeless glimpse into the beauty of nature and the seasons.