Vintage item, never used. This set of five small square plates represents the refined tradition of Akazu-yaki (赤津焼), one of the oldest surviving ceramic traditions in Japan. Produced in the Akazu district of Seto, Aichi Prefecture, Akazu-yaki is celebrated for its use of locally sourced clay, soft natural glazes, and a style that balances rustic warmth with quiet elegance. The craft has been protected for centuries—Akazu is one of the “Seven Seto Kilns,” and its techniques are designated as a Japanese Traditional Craft.
Each plate in this set features a different hand-painted floral motif, rendered in soft blue with delicate accents of color. The designs have a graceful, almost brush-ink quality, reflecting the long-standing relationship between Japanese ceramics and traditional painting.
The pieces are signed by Saidō (彩堂), a studio known for producing ceramics that highlight the beauty of subtle glazes and classic Japanese botanical themes. Saidō’s works often feature crisp yet gentle illustrations paired with fine crackle glazes, evoking a sense of harmony and seasonality.
The lightly textured white glaze on these plates contains natural crackling (kan’nyū), adding character and depth to the surface. Each plate carries Saidō’s signature 彩堂 along with a red seal mark. The set is preserved in its original kiri (paulownia wood) box, inscribed with calligraphy and seal stamps that attest to its authenticity and studio provenance.
Perfect for serving small dishes, appetizers, wagashi, or for decorative display, this set embodies the simplicity, beauty, and craftsmanship that define Akazu-yaki.
Size: 12 x 12 x 1.5cm
28 x 15 x 5.5cm
