Purple Kochi Chrysanthemum Arabesque Design Katakuchi by Miyagawa Kosai

Height: 8.0cm Width: 9.0cm x 10.0cm

A conversation with Kosai Miyagawa

Created by Miyagawa Kosai, this is a masterpiece that embodies the traditions of Kyoto. This katakuchi is characterized by its deep purple color, and the surface is beautifully painted with a chrysanthemum arabesque pattern. The chrysanthemum pattern has long been a symbol of immortality and longevity, based on its efficacy as a medicinal herb, while the arabesque pattern symbolizes longevity and prosperity, as its vines continue to grow without interruption. These auspicious patterns were highly valued as wedding furnishings in the Edo period, and are still popular today for their good luck.

Characteristics and history of Katakuchi

Katakuchi is a traditional vessel with a spout on one side of the rim, and has been used in Japan since the Jomon and Yayoi periods. This shape is used especially for serving sake, and its wider opening compared to a tokkuri allows you to fully enjoy the aroma of the sake. Katakuchi can be used in a variety of ways, and has been used at the dinner table and tea ceremonies from ancient times to the present day.

Technique and its development

"Koshi" is a technique that originated in Cochinchina, which refers to the area currently known as Vietnam, and its name became widespread under the influence of the Chinese dynasty. This technique was later developed into Kyo-yaki, and many tea utensils were produced, especially to meet the demand at tea ceremonies. In this piece, the vivid purple is expressed using the Koshi technique, and the chrysanthemum arabesque pattern painted on top creates a beautiful contrast. This katakuchi, which combines the traditions of Kyo-yaki and the Koshi technique, is highly regarded as a tea utensil, combining sophisticated beauty with practicality.

The Tradition and Beauty of Makuzu Ware

Makuzu ware is known for being particularly rich in techniques among Kyoto ware, encompassing a wide range of techniques such as overglaze painting, blue and white porcelain, iron painting, Kouchi, and gold lining. The Miyagawa Kosai family boasts a history of approximately 330 years, during which time they have inherited techniques such as Ninsei and Kenzan copies, and have produced many pieces that are in keeping with the times. This piece is a wonderful fusion of these techniques, and strongly reflects the diversity and tradition of Makuzu ware.

History of Miyagawa family pottery

The history of Miyagawa family pottery began around 1680, when the first generation Miyagawa Kobee Masakazu moved to Kyoto and began producing pottery. During its history, which dates back to the early Edo period, a wide variety of ceramics have been produced in keeping with the times. When sencha tea was popular, they produced sencha tea utensils, and when the tea ceremony was fashionable, they produced tea utensils, and this tradition continues to this day. Today, the Miyagawa Kosai family's works are highly regarded both in Japan and overseas, and they have many fans, especially in the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and China.

Domestic and international evaluation and future

Its vivid colors and intricate patterns have captivated many people, and it is a piece that embodies the techniques and traditions of Makuzu ware. This piece, which continues to be loved especially in the world of tea ceremony, also plays a role in conveying Japanese beauty to the world. It is expected that Makuzu ware, which is imbued with the elegance and splendor of Kyoto, will continue to be highly acclaimed both at home and abroad, and its charm will be conveyed to many people.