[Arita Ware]
A porcelain made in Arita area in Saga prefecture.
In the beginning of 17 century, a Korean potters Sanpei Li discovered high quality porcelain stones in Izumiyama then cerated the first porcelain ware in Japan. Arita had been the only porcelain producing area in Japan until the end of Edo period.
Because Arita ware had been shipped from Imari Port at that time, it is also called as “Imari ware”. During the late 17th and the late 18th century, Arita ware had been exported to Europe and other countries.
It has delicate and luxury patterns painted with navy/red/yellow/gold colors on beautiful white porcelain. Because Arita ware has a high durability and it is thin like a grass, it is most suitable for tablewares.
It is designated as the Traditional Japan Crafts by Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry in 1977.
Inoue Manji (1929 - present)
Inoue Manji is a Living National Treasure recognized for his work with white porcelain.
Born into a family of potters, Inoue apprenticed for seven years under the famous Arita potter Sakaida Kakiemon XII (beginning in 1945). He later became a pupil of Okugawa Chuemon, master of the pottery wheel. Inoue himself learned the art of the pottery wheel under Okugawa's tutelage.
In 1987, Inoue received the Minister of Education Award for Fine Arts at the 34th annual Japan Traditional Art Crafts Exhibition for his piece entitled "Seihakuji chomonbachii" (celadon porcelain bowl with a floral pattern).
In 1995, Inoue was designated the status of Preserver of Important Intangible Cultural Properties for his work with white porcelain. The title is commonly referred to as Living National Treasure, though this term does not appear in any official documents.
Other accolades:
- Medal of Honor (Purple Ribbon)
- Order of the Rising Sun, 3rd Class (Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon)