Origins and History
Imari porcelain – Arita dates back to the 17th century in the city of Arita, located in Saga Prefecture, Japan. At that time, there was a strong demand for fine porcelain, prompting local potters to develop their own style and technique. Their creations quickly gained notoriety, captivating with their finesse and unique brilliance.
Evolution of the Motifs
The first Imari Arita pieces featured simple motifs: circles, lines, or dots. But over time, the designs became increasingly elaborate. Artisans drew inspiration from nature, mythology, wildlife, and even historical figures to adorn their porcelain with rich and poetic scenes. Delicate flowers, dreamlike landscapes, and stylized animals become their signature.
Exceptional porcelain
What distinguishes Arita Imari porcelain is its dazzling whiteness and great strength. These qualities come from the use of kaolin, a pure white clay, and a double-firing process at very high temperatures. This technique gives each piece its hardness, luster, and a remarkably fine finish.
A worldwide success
Considered one of the finest forms of porcelain in the world. Arita Imari porcelain is prized today for both fine tableware and objets d’art. Vases, plates, or decorative pieces: each creation captivates with its timeless beauty and exceptional quality, highly sought after by collectors worldwide.
The Japanese Porcelain Manufacturing Process
The creation of Japanese porcelain is based on precise know-how, passed down from generation to generation. Here are the main manufacturing steps:
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Paste preparation
Mixing kaolin, feldspar, and silica to form a smooth, homogeneous paste. -
Molding
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Drying
The pieces are left exposed to the air to eliminate moisture. -
First Firing
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Decoration
Painting, engraving, transfer, or inlay: methods vary according to regional traditions and styles. -
Enameling
A layer of enamel (often made from glass and metal oxides) is applied to protect the piece and enhance its shine. -
Final Firing
A second firing, at a lower temperature, sets the enamel and creates a smooth, shiny surface.Regional Variations
Each region of Japan develops its own techniques. While Arita is famous for its double-firing, other schools such as Kutani are distinguished by the use of
