Kutani-ware was first practised in the area now known as Ishikawa Prefecture in the 17th century.
With the Azuchi-Momoyama and Edo culture setting the backdrop, this painted porcelain is a dazzling expression of the world of earthenware.
Kutani-ware is famous for its bold designs and fine brushstrokes, seen in styles such as the densely-embellished “Aote”, and “Gosaite” that uses 5 vivid colors.
Some of the styles have such a delicate, breath-taking touch.
One of the techniques is “Akae Saibyo”, which uses fine patterns in red.
Since the patterns are painted in red alone, they stand out against the white porcelain, and they’re painted with red iron oxide taken from the soil using the tips of extremely thin brushes.
The lines are as thin as a single hair, and some of the dots are so small you can’t see them without straining your eyes.
As the craftsman applies one stroke after another without hesitation, patterns like Karako, Sansuizu, and Komon take shape.
These are incense containers and drinking vessels made by Buzan Fukushima, one of the masters of the Akae Saibyo style, and his apprentices.