Mikihiko Yamaguchi, a master of Arita ware Hakuji (white porcelain) with more than 40 years as a potter.

A Traditional Craftsman
A Traditional Craftsman designated by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Mikihiko Yamaguchi is well known as a full member of the Japan Kogei Association. His own Hakuji peony carving unites precision with presence. His life as a master craftsman has been featured by major newspapers, the Asahi Shimbun foremost among them. This is a work of real dedication by a master of form: a fine rice bowl in a dignified, radiant white.

An Everyday Pleasure
When the rice bowl you pick up every day is this graceful, it becomes one of the pleasures of daily life.

Peonies in Openwork
In Hakuji of a clear, brilliant white, peony flowers open in openwork carving. As the light changes, the large peony blooms reveal a splendid presence.

A Size That Fits the Hand
On the small side, at 11 cm across, it is a size and shape that sits snugly and easily in the hand.

For Celebrations and Milestones
A rice bowl that is the very essence of Arita white porcelain — recommended as a celebration gift for someone important, or as a present to mark a milestone.

About Arita Ware
Arita ware is the origin of Japanese porcelain. In 1616, under the rule of the Saga domain lord Naoshige Nabeshima, pottery stone was found in what is now Saga Prefecture and production began. Because the wares were made in Arita and shipped from the port of Imari, they are also known as Imari ware. Carried to Europe by the Dutch East India Company — the only trading partner permitted during Japan’s period of national seclusion — the porcelain was called “white gold” and furnished the courts of royalty and nobility.

Why a Paulownia Box
Paulownia wood is light, resists moisture and insects, and moves with changes in humidity — which is why it has been used in Japan for centuries to store what is valuable. A piece delivered in a paulownia box arrives ready to give, and the box itself is part of the gift.

Contents and Dimensions
Rice bowl × 1, booklet, paulownia box.
Height: 6.5cm Diameter: 11cm
As each piece is handmade, slight variations in size may occur.