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

A Master of Hakuji
Mikihiko Yamaguchi is a Traditional Craftsman designated by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, and is well known as a full member of the Japan Kogei Association. His own style of Hakuji peony carving combines 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.

White, Worthy of the Name Arita
A shochu glass in which the white truly stands out — worthy of bearing the name of Arita, the birthplace of white porcelain in Japan.

A Graceful Line
The glass traces a smooth, graceful line, and both the feel in the hand and the ease of use are just right. Every aspect of appearance and form has been pursued to the utmost. The rim is thin, making it pleasant to drink from.

Peonies Carved in Openwork
In Hakuji of a clear, brilliant white, peony flowers open in openwork carving. Because the porcelain is translucent, the carving shows as beautifully as crystal when light shines on it.

The King of Flowers
A Japanese saying likens a beautiful woman to flowers: “standing, the herbaceous peony; seated, the tree peony; walking, the lily.” Called the king of flowers, the peony has been admired since ancient times as a symbol of splendour.

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
Whisky glass × 1, booklet, paulownia box.
Height: 9.5cm, Mouth diameter: 8.5cm / Weight: 220g, Capacity: 230ml
As each piece is handmade, slight variations in size may occur.