Bowl / Arabesque / Indigo / Yachimun

Product Description

Product Story

General Product Information

This piece is the result of an exhaustive pursuit: to find the perfect form that best showcases "Karakusa Senbori" (Arabesque line-carving), the signature traditional pattern of Ikutoen. Through repeated trial and error, we arrived at this rounded silhouette—designed specifically to complement the flowing lines of the carving—and a size that feels natural when held in both hands.

Because of the way it nestles perfectly into the palms, we named it "Ti-wan" (Hand-Bowl). By cradling the bowl, you can truly feel the depth and texture of the hand-carved yachimun. With no sketches used beforehand, each stroke is a testament to the artisan's spontaneous skill, making this a truly luxurious piece of functional art.

Traditional Motifs of Tsuboya-yaki
The motifs adorning Ikutoen pottery are time-honored symbols of Tsuboya-yaki, each carrying the heartfelt wishes of our ancestors for good fortune. These auspicious patterns make our pottery a cherished gift for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and retirements.

Karakusa (Arabesque): Representing vines that stretch infinitely in all directions, this pattern symbolizes longevity and prosperity. It is an ideal gift for weddings or milestone longevity celebrations (such as 60th or 70th birthdays).

Kiku (Chrysanthemum): A flower symbolizing the blessings of the sun, believed to ward off illness and extend life. As a symbol of vibrant vitality, it is recommended for baby showers, get-well gifts, or celebrating new beginnings like a new job or school enrollment.

Uomin (Fish): A symbol of wealth and happiness. As fish lay many eggs, it also represents fertility and the flourishing of future generations. Perfect for housewarmings, business openings, or longevity celebrations.

----Important Information----
Variation in Handcrafted Items:
Please note that the item you receive will be unique and may differ slightly from the product images. Because our pottery is crafted entirely by hand—from the mixing of the clay and glazes to the firing process—factors such as the weather can affect the final finish. Subtle variations in shape, size, color tone, and texture (including the expressions on Shisa figures) are hallmarks of authentic handwork. We hope you will cherish these individual characteristics as the unique "flavor" of handcrafted art.

Care Instructions:

Microwave: Our pottery is fired at temperatures exceeding 1,200°C and is heat-resistant. However, the rapid temperature changes in a microwave can weaken the ceramic over time. Use is at your own discretion.

Dishwasher: Not recommended. Strong water pressure or vibrations may cause pieces to collide and chip or crack.

Dryer: Please avoid using a dryer. Sudden temperature shifts may cause the pottery to crack.

Open Flame / Oven: Do not use over an open flame or in an oven. Ikutoen pottery uses local Okinawan clay, which is not formulated for high-heat cooking.

 Product History

When did these crafts start to craft?：600 years ago / 1400AD / Muromachi period in Japan

The history of Yachimun (Okinawan pottery) spans over 600 years. Between the 14th and 16th centuries, during the golden age of the Ryukyu Kingdom’s maritime trade, ceramics and "Nanban-yaki" techniques were introduced from China and Southeast Asia. During this era, imported pottery was the mainstay, and local production remained limited.

A significant turning point occurred in 1609, following the invasion of Ryukyu by the Satsuma Domain. With trade heavily restricted under occupation, the kingdom was forced to develop self-sufficient industries for daily necessities. In 1682, seeking to bolster local industry, King Sho Tei of the Ryukyu Dynasty consolidated three scattered kilns—Wakuta, Takaguchi, and Chibana—into a single district south of Makishi in Naha.

This newly established pottery center was named "Tsuboya," and the ceramics produced there became known as "Tsuboya-yaki." This consolidation marks the official birth and the enduring legacy of Tsuboya-yaki.

Craftsman Story

Craftsman Profile

Ikutoen Studio
Located in the historic Tsuboya district of Naha City, Ikutoen is a distinguished pottery studio (kamamoto) with a legacy spanning over 300 years of traditional Tsuboya-yaki craftsmanship.
The Takaesu family, who have stewarded this craft for generations, established Ikutoen as an independent studio during the fifth generation. Today, the lineage continues under the leadership of the sixth-generation master, Tadashi Takaesu.
With an unwavering commitment to using local Okinawan clay and original, handmade glazes, the studio is renowned for its iconic "Karakusa Senbori" (arabesque line carving) collection and its masterfully crafted Shisa (guardian lions).

Craftsman Passion

"Weaving the Spirit of Tsuboya into the Future"

For over 300 years, Ikutoen has been a living part of the Tsuboya landscape—a place defined by red-tiled roofs, vine-covered stone walls, and ancient banyan trees. Under sixth-generation master Tadashi Takaesu, we continue to breathe life into Okinawan clay, honoring the "Senbori" carving and Shisa traditions passed down from his father, Ikuo. Our craftsmanship is fueled by a spirit of "Open Radiance"—a burning passion that brings together artisans, locals, and travelers alike. By creating pottery that resonates with the modern era, we aim to convey the warmth of the human hand and the joy of connection, ensuring that the beautiful scenery and soul of Tsuboya endure for generations to come.

 

Your Contribution to Craftsman

Customer Voice

Due to the market structure (link for full articles are attached bottom), craftsman have not known who the customer is and how customer reacts to their work. We made a “Message to Craftsman” box at purchase page. We will deliver all message to every craftsman. Our review will be also shared to craftsman so please leave your comment and evaluation on review section!

Income for Craftsman: Craftsman get only less than 10% of selling price?

As written above, craftsman have not controlled last phase of sales channel that resulting in selling price is set by third-party without craftsman’s recognition. There are some cases that only less than 10% of selling price is given to craftsman. We promise with our customer / craftsman that we offer the fair trade with craftsmen in our contract!

We made an article about above problem and our challenge. Please have a read from below link.
Current state of the Crafts Market / Benefits brought by Suigenkyo

Measurement

Width：10cm
Depth：10cm
Height：7cm
Weight：200g
Capacity：270ml

Material & Caution

Materials

Ceramics

 

Caution

Individual Difference

Each piece is handmade, so there are individual differences even in the same series. We hope that you will understand the change by handmade.

Delivery Date

Please note that it will take about a month for delivery if we do not have the item in stock.