Harekutani Akae Series

Charming Kutani ware that adds a touch of elegance to your everyday table.
Harekutani relief plates adorned with traditional Akae(red-painted） designs

“Akae” (red painting) in Kutani ware is one of Japan's most representative decorative techniques, featuring overglaze painting with a red base that vibrantly adorns the entire vessel. It stands out as a particularly striking feature within Kutani ware, a traditional craft of Ishikawa Prefecture.

Its most distinctive feature is the deep, vibrant red created by pigments containing iron oxide. Against this backdrop, scenes of nature—such as flowers, birds, the moon, and the wind—as well as figures and geometric patterns are intricately rendered, making full use of negative space to create a whole world on the surface of the vessel.

Furthermore, the combination of gold accents further enhances the brilliance of the red, elevating it to a beauty that embodies both elegance and sophistication.

Among these, “Akae Saibyo” is a technique that renders patterns with extremely fine lines, known for its painterly density and impact.

This Akae style flourished significantly in the late Edo period, and the style popularized by Kutani Shoza in particular is still passed down today as the “Shoza-style.”

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ーHarekutani Akae Series, Size S

Bring the splendor of Kutani to the palm of your hand.
With a silhouette that’s slightly angular, as if a flower has just bloomed, this piece adds rhythm and vibrancy to your table.
Though small, these dishes have a strong presence—you’ll find yourself lining them up and wondering, “Which one should I use today?”
Their unique shape embodies the blend of tradition and playfulness that defines Harekutani.

ーHarekutani Akae Series, Size M

Retaining the traditional red painting style, this “cute yet sophisticated” design fits perfectly on the modern dining table. The rim of the plate features a gently undulating “relief” finish. Simply place a few sweets or pieces of fruit on it, and it instantly transforms into a plate straight out of a café.

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Two shapes that are even more delightful when stacked.

Stack two plates together to create a single serving plate that looks just like the ones in a restaurant. The M size features a rounded shape, while the S size resembles a blossoming flower.
With slight differences in both design and silhouette, simply combining them creates a pleasant rhythm on your dining table.