Kakiemon white porcelain bowl with embossed plum blossom design

The first thing that catches your eye is the way it stands.
The body rises straight up from its high base without bulging out at the waist, and the slightly bulging umbrella-shaped lid gives it a distinctive, dignified form.

The wall of the vessel is made from a thin layer of smooth, dense clay, and a plum pattern is carved into it using the relief engraving technique.

Kakiemon is known for its milky white porcelain with red paintings, known as nigde. This lidded teacup, with its plain, unpainted design, is extremely rare.

The plum blossom pattern is clearly and well-cast in relief. The double plum blossoms, horizontal flowers, and buds are mixed together, dancing rhythmically and lightly. The delicateness of the small plum blossoms scattered among the clear white porcelain needs no further explanation.

If you imagine what it would be like if it was painted with red enamel, it might seem a little too cute, but in the case of relief patterns, the main focus is on the white porcelain. The patterns that change with the shadows also have a fleeting look.

It is precisely because they are plain that you can enjoy the high quality white porcelain that is unique to Kakiemon. The soft color of the white porcelain, which is not too shiny, blends in with the food while also nicely complementing it with its elegant appearance.

There are many antique lidded teacups, but this is a special piece that I would say is in a league of its own.