Keep it long, treasure it long.

With the beckoning cat. A modest vessel for good fortune.

The dishes we frequently use for our daily meals are directly linked to their practicality and how often they come into play. This set of 5 Hand Salt Plates featuring Shungiku is crafted from Amakusa porcelain stone. The design of the rim, resembling the blooming petals of a chrysanthemum, is accented with a red line, adding a touch of vibrancy to your dining table.

These hand salt plates are perfect for holding soy sauce, salt, or condiments. They can also be used as chopstick rests or for resting teaspoons, making them versatile for various uses. Despite their small size, fitting comfortably in the palm of your hand, they are frequently utilized at the dining table and are unobtrusive when not in use, making them an easy addition to your tableware.

The Lightness of Porcelain and the Warmth of Handcraft

Each plate features five beckoning cats, creating a modest yet auspicious set. The white porcelain with ample negative space showcases cats painted with a flowing brushstroke. Each cat displays a slightly different expression, bringing a sense of joy amidst tranquility.

Their names are already decided. From the top left of the first image, in a clockwise direction: Tama, Miiko, Maru, Yuki, and Hachi. When arranged together, they exude a charm that naturally sparks conversation. They are practical yet unobtrusive and adorable. Simply placing them on your usual dining table can bring a smile to your face. We hope you will enjoy them for a long time as a delightful presence in your life.

The production is handled by Kōshun Kiln in Hasami, Nagasaki Prefecture, a workshop with over 400 years of history. They are dedicated to the creation of glazes and hand-thrown shaping, utilizing techniques honed over centuries. Due to the unique handcrafting process, the surface of the dishes may exhibit faint horizontal lines, which are natural remnants of the hand-thrown method. These subtle variations add a gentle ambiance to your dining experience. They are perfect for festive occasions such as New Year’s celebrations or Hinamatsuri. Small plates like these are always a welcome addition, making them a great gift for weddings and other celebrations.

A Life in Harmony with Objects

Since its establishment, Azumaya has collaborated with trusted domestic artisans to create numerous tools for everyday life. In our lives surrounded by many "things," we aim to produce items that quietly accompany us and serve a purpose in our daily routines. Utilizing Japanese materials and techniques, Azumaya creates products that honor tradition while introducing a sense of novelty. By redesigning traditional Japanese "tools" to fit modern lifestyles, we breathe new life into the cherished items that Japanese people have valued for generations. The craftsmanship of Azumaya is a reminder of the beauty of Japan.