Mayu-gata (cocoon) box in sometsuke porcelain from Arita

This Japanese porcelain box from Arita, in the shape of a mayu-gata (cocoon), is distinguished by the purity of its line and the precision of its sometsuke (underglaze blue) decoration. Its organic, soft and asymmetrical silhouette is inspired by the shape of a silk cocoon, a traditional auspicious motif in Japan.

The ceramist
This piece was produced by the Fukusen kiln (Fukusen-gama), located in Arita, Saga Prefecture, and distributed by Marubun, a company renowned for the quality of its porcelain. Porcelain from the Fukusen kiln is renowned for the finesse of its paste, the precision of its design, and the clarity of the cobalt blue characteristic of sometsuke. The aesthetics of this box reflect this expertise: balanced proportions, mastery of the brush, and a keen sense of composition.

The technique and the decor
Modeled in fine Arita porcelain, this box features a hand-painted decoration in sometsuke (underglaze blue), then covered with a transparent glaze. The main motif, karakusa (arabesques), combines stylized plant scrolls with geometric floral motifs. This technique and these motifs, inherited from the first Arita kilns in the 17th century, remain emblematic of Japanese porcelain: an art of contrast between the limpidity of white and the depth of blue, requiring great control of fire and pigment. On the lid, golden brushstrokes evoke kintsugi.

Practical information
Place
Japan (Arita, Saga Prefecture)

Dimensions
Length 20 cm – Depth 11 cm – Height 7 cm

Weight
840 gr

Materials
Japanese Arita porcelain

Period
Contemporary

Care instructions
After use, drain the water and let it air dry. Avoid thermal shock and abrasive products. Wipe with a soft cloth. Do not use in the dishwasher, oven, or microwave.