Kutani ware refers to overglazed ceramic ware made in the Kaga region, Ishikawa Prefecture, which is located almost at the center of Japan. It originated in the mid-17th century when claystone, which can be used for ceramic ware, was found in Kutani Village, which is now Kaga City, Ishikawa Prefecture. Early Kutani ware is called “kokutani” (meaning “old Kutani”), and it is characterized by vibrant designs using the so-called “Kutani gosai” (meaning “five colors of Kutani”), which are red, yellow, green, purple, and deep blue.

It is characterized by the distinctive use of vivid colors. 九谷 庄三 手「色絵草花人物図深鉢」-CC BY 4.0

During the period between the end of the 18th century and early 19th century, many new studios were built throughout the region. Later, artisans who pursued their unique individual styles while also respecting the Kokutani colors began appearing. Those styles include Mokubei, which features an illustration of Chinese style people drawn on a red background, and Iroe Kinrande, which features a flamboyant look with a generous use of gold.

Delicate designs are created through a high level of craftsmanship. 九谷北山堂　宮荘 一藤 製「赤絵金彩人物図大香炉」-CC BY 4.0

The Kutani ware making process Wedging, shaping, bisque firing, glazing, firing, painting, and gold application—every step of Kutani ware making requires the meticulous work and years of experience of the artisans. Out of all these steps, overglazing of vivid colors is arguably the most important one. By layering uniquely deep yellow and purple and impressive deep blue while using red and green as main colors, gorgeous designs, which even look three dimensional on the flat surface, are created.

九谷 庄三「色絵花鳥図大平鉢」-CC BY 4.0

Connection with culture Kutani ware has a deep connection with Japanese food culture and the tea ceremony. For example, in the world of “kaiseki ryōri” (a traditional multi-course Japanese meal), which evolved along with the development of the tea ceremony culture led by Sen no Rikyū, aesthetically pleasing dishes are served while ensuring the balance between the colors of the ingredients and the colors of Kutani ware. Kutani ware also has a deep connection with the Japanese tea ceremony, and it is used as tea bowls and confectionery containers that capture the moods of the changing seasons. From flower vases and incense burners placed in “tokonoma” (a recessed space in a Japanese style reception room) to tableware that is used daily, Kutani ware is used for a variety of purposes, and it is loved as a craft that embodies two opposite elements—Japanese wabi-sabi aesthetics and flamboyance. In recent years, some young artisans are creating pieces with innovative designs and colors, going beyond the boundary of conventional Kutani ware. From Tokyo Station, it takes about three hours by shinkansen to get to Nomi-shi, Ishikawa Prefecture, where you can find many Kutani ware studios. Throughout the year, these studios offer various experiences, such as painting and studio tours, that let you experience the traditional craft in person. Why not visit Ishikawa to enjoy the charm of Kutani ware—a valuable traditional craft that embodies Japanese aesthetics.

■DATA Ishikawa Kutani Ceramics Commerce and Industry Association Official website: https://kutani.or.jp/ (Information as of March 2025)

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