Arita Ware
Resumen
La porcelana Arita (有田焼, Arita-yaki) es un célebre estilo de porcelana japonesa que se originó a principios del siglo XVII en la ciudad de Arita, ubicada en la prefectura de Saga, en la isla de Kyushu. Conocida por su refinada belleza, su delicada pintura y su influencia global, la porcelana Arita fue una de las primeras exportaciones de porcelana de Japón y contribuyó a moldear la percepción europea de la cerámica de Asia Oriental.
It is characterized by its:
- White porcelain base
- Cobalt blue underglaze painting
- Later, multicolored enamel overglazes (aka-e and kinrande styles)
History
Origins in the Early 1600s
The story of Arita ware begins with the discovery of kaolin, a key component of porcelain, near Arita around 1616. The craft is said to have been introduced by Korean potter Yi Sam-pyeong (also known as Kanagae Sanbei), who is credited with founding Japan's porcelain industry following his forced migration during the Japanese invasions of Korea (1592–1598).
Edo Period: Rise to Prominence
By the mid-17th century, Arita ware had established itself as a luxury item domestically and abroad. Through the port of Imari, it was exported to Europe by the Dutch East India Company (VOC), where it competed with Chinese porcelain and greatly influenced Western ceramics.
Meiji Period and Modern Day
Arita potters adapted to changing markets, incorporating Western techniques and styles during the Meiji era. Today, Arita remains a center of fine porcelain production, blending traditional methods with modern innovation.
Characteristics of Arita Ware
Materials
Kaolin clay from Izumiyama quarry
High-fired at temperatures around 1300°C
Durable, vitrified porcelain body
Decorative Techniques
Technique | Description |
---|---|
Underglaze Blue (Sometsuke) | Painted with cobalt blue before glazing and firing. |
Overglaze Enamels (Aka-e) | Applied after the first firing; includes vibrant reds, greens, and gold. |
Kinrande Style | Incorporates gold leaf and elaborate ornamentation. |
Motifs and Themes
Typical designs include:
Nature: peonies, cranes, plum blossoms
Folklore and literature scenes
Geometric and arabesque patterns
Chinese-style landscapes (during early export phase)
Production Process
1. Clay Preparation
Kaolin is mined, crushed, and refined to produce a workable porcelain body.
2. Shaping
Craftsmen form vessels using hand-throwing or molds, depending on the complexity and shape.
3. First Firing (Biscuit)
Pieces are dried and fired to harden the form without glaze.
4. Decoration
Underglaze designs are applied with cobalt oxide. After glazing, a second high-temperature firing vitrifies the porcelain.
5. Overglaze Enameling (Optional)
For multicolored versions, enamel paints are added and fired again at lower temperatures (~800°C).
Cultural Significance
Arita ware represents the beginning of Japanese porcelain as an art and industry.
It was designated a Traditional Craft of Japan by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI).
The craft has UNESCO recognition as part of Japan's intangible cultural heritage initiatives.
It continues to influence modern ceramic art and tableware design worldwide.
Arita Ware Today
Modern Arita artists often blend centuries-old techniques with minimalist contemporary aesthetics.
The town of Arita hosts the Arita Ceramic Fair every spring, attracting over a million visitors.
Museums like the Kyushu Ceramic Museum and Arita Porcelain Park preserve and promote the heritage.