Japanese Vintage Porcelain Plate | Modern Green Leaf Charger | Gold Rim Large Platter | Mid Century Serving Dish | Kitchen Dinnerware Art

The Story Behind This Piece:

Embraced by the rich mountain ranges of the Chugoku region and blanketed in deep snow during the winter months, the northern part of Hiroshima Prefecture has long inherited a unique and profound cultural tapestry. Historically flourishing through the trade of traditional tatara ironmaking, abundant timber resources, and its role as a vital post town along ancient highways, this region boasts majestic minka (traditional Japanese folk houses) with heavy wooden beams. It is from the depth of a storehouse, known as a "Kura," belonging to one such beautiful historic estate in northern Hiroshima that a single, breathtaking large platter has emerged after more than half a century. The backstamp quietly etched on the reverse side does not indicate a widely known mass-market brand, but rather suggests a unique, proprietary logo created by a dedicated manufacturer or exporter of the era who invested their utmost pride into the piece. During the mid-Showa period of the 1960s, as Japan moved from post-war reconstruction toward rapid economic growth, there were numerous independent kilns and passionate exporters whose names never made the headlines, yet who possessed world-class technical skills and a burning desire to introduce Japanese beauty to the global stage. This platter stands as irrefutable evidence of the fervor and sophistication of that very era, when Japanese craftsmanship was leaping onto the international scene, actively seeking new standards of aesthetic beauty. While firmly rooted in traditional artisanal handcraft techniques, the creators sensitively absorbed the movements of Western modern design, and the abstract motif of two leaves rendered on this platter is a magnificent crystallization of that contemporary spirit.

One leaf is boldly dressed in a deep, vibrant green pigment, while the other is masterfully expressed with a delicate gray gradation—a traditional technique known as "bokashi" (shading)—making it appear as if it is gently dissolving into a soft mist. This striking contrast could only be achieved through an extremely high level of skill, where the artisan meticulously controlled the airflow of the spray or the pressure of the brush on each individual piece. Furthermore, the ultra-fine gold rim that softly frames the edge of the platter was applied under breathtaking tension by a master craftsman of the time, exuding an elegance that contemporary mass-produced goods can never replicate. Far removed from cheap, soul-less mass production, this unique mark, infused with the artisan’s spirit, speaks eloquently of its absolute rarity and its distinct "Mingei (folk art) value" as a hidden masterpiece.

The original owner of this exquisite platter was a prominent merchant family in Hiroshima that dealt in fine silk textiles and kimono fabrics, supporting the regional culture throughout the pre- and post-war eras. The head of the family at the time possessed a discerning eye with a deep appreciation for cutting-edge art and design. It is said that he encountered this exceptionally designed piece during his frequent interactions with buyers from Tokyo and overseas. He welcomed this platter into his home not merely as a utilitarian vessel for dining, but as a central showpiece embodying "Yo-no-Bi" (the beauty of utility) to entertain special guests. Evoking the fresh, lush greenery of early summer, this platter was used to beautifully present delicate dishes crafted from fresh Seto Inland Sea seafood, as well as Western cuisine, which was the height of culinary sophistication at the time. It brilliantly adorned the dining tables in Western-style sitting rooms where modern jazz played softly in the background. In that unique space, where the solemn dignity of a traditional Japanese house merged with the airy lightness of Showa modernism, this platter delighted the eyes of many as a true symbol of a new era.

However, as the eras shifted from Showa to Heisei and people's lifestyles underwent rapid transformation, this grand residence gradually completed its historical role. The furnishings and vessels that once colored glamorous banquets were carefully packed away, along with the changing times, into the robust storehouse situated deep within the estate. This Kura, with its blocked-out light, naturally regulated humidity, and profound silence, inadvertently became the perfect sanctuary to preserve this delicate porcelain. Sleeping in the pitch-black darkness for decades without being touched by human eyes, the platter miraculously retained its pristine white porcelain brilliance and vivid colorations without a single scratch. It was a miraculous suspension of time, as if a chapter of modern Japanese ceramic history had been frozen and perfectly preserved.

Now, in the year 2026, triggered by the tidying and transitioning of this historic estate to the next generation, the heavy doors of the Kura have finally been unlocked, and this large platter has once again bathed in the contemporary light. Today, the world is rediscovering the profound spirit of traditional Japanese aesthetics and the unique philosophy of "wabi-sabi," which finds deep beauty in the natural passage of time and impermanence. The allure of this platter cannot be fully articulated by terms like "vintage" or "antique" alone. The serene presence of the white porcelain, the subtle fluctuations in the hand-painted execution, and the luster of the gold rim that has softened ever so slightly over the decades all harbor a genuine warmth that modern industrial products have long lost. Precisely because it is not a standardized product of a massive corporation, it directly reflects the uncompromising passion of the artisan and the patron of that time. This design, where minimalism and warmth coexist, harmonizes astonishingly well with contemporary modern interiors and lifestyles that seek sustainable, authentic living. Merely by being placed in a room, this masterpiece acts as a time capsule, bringing a rich narrative and profound depth to any space. We invite you to welcome this timeless beauty into your life and cherish a truly once-in-a-lifetime encounter.

Condition & Notes:
Please note before purchasing.
This is a vintage or antique item sold as-is.
Due to age and long-term storage, natural signs of wear and aging may be present, including:
* small scratches or scuffs
* fading or discoloration
* glaze irregularities or imperfections
* crackling (crazing), kiln marks, or gold wear
* slight warping or age-related changes in wooden parts
Vintage and antique items may also carry natural storage-related scents from wood, paper, lacquer, smoke, or long-term preservation environments.
These characteristics are part of the individuality, historical character, and quiet beauty that vintage Japanese items carry.
They are not flaws, but the gentle traces of time.
We kindly ask for your understanding that vintage and antique items differ from newly manufactured products.
We do our best to show all notable details in the photos, but some small imperfections may not be fully visible.
Please review the dimensions carefully before purchasing, as photos may make items appear larger or smaller depending on display settings and shooting conditions.
Please note that colors may appear slightly different depending on lighting conditions and screen settings.
Only the items shown in the photos are included unless otherwise stated.
Display stands, decorative props, or accessories used for photography are not included unless explicitly stated.
Thank you for appreciating the character and spirit of these timeworn pieces.

Dimensions:

Height: 1.8 cm (0.71 in)
Depth: 27.2 cm (10.71 in)
Width: 27.2 cm (10.71 in)
Base: 16.4 cm (6.46 in)
Weight: 600 g (21.16 oz)

Shipping Information:
All items are shipped from Hiroshima, Japan.
Orders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment is confirmed.
For shipments to the United States, we use DHL Express or UPS with full tracking and insurance.
For all other destinations, orders are shipped via DHL Express, UPS, or Japan Post EMS depending on the destination and shipping conditions.
Each item is carefully packed with protective materials to ensure safe delivery.
Estimated delivery time is approximately 7–14 business days depending on customs procedures, local delivery conditions, weather disruptions, and customs inspections.
International Buyers – Duties, VAT & Taxes:
Import duties / customs duties are covered by us for all available shipping destinations.
However, VAT, GST, consumption taxes, customs processing fees, carrier handling fees, and other local import-related charges are not included in the item price unless otherwise stated.
These charges are the responsibility of the buyer.
Depending on your country’s regulations, these charges may be collected either by local customs authorities or by the shipping carrier upon delivery.
For many higher-value international orders, VAT/GST and import-related processing charges are commonly collected at the time of delivery.
Please note that free shipping or customs duty coverage does not mean that VAT/GST or local import-related charges are included.
Even when customs duties are covered by us, VAT/GST and local import-related charges may still be payable separately by the buyer upon delivery.
We do not mark items as gifts or under-declare their value for customs purposes.
Please ensure that your shipping address and contact information are accurate and complete.
If a package is returned due to an incorrect address, unpaid VAT/GST or import-related charges, refusal, or failed delivery, all return and reshipping costs are the buyer’s responsibility.
International deliveries may occasionally experience delays due to customs procedures or local postal conditions.

Damage During Shipping:
In the unlikely event that your item arrives damaged, please contact us within 10 days of delivery and provide clear photos of:
* the damaged item
* the outer shipping box
* the inside packaging condition
* the shipping label
Please keep all packaging materials and damaged items until the shipping carrier completes the investigation.
Minor imperfections consistent with the nature of vintage or antique items are not considered shipping damage.

Returns & Refunds:
All items are vintage or antique and sold as-is.
Due to the nature of vintage and antique items, we generally do not accept returns, cancellations, or refunds except where required by law or covered by shipping insurance.
Returns or refunds are not accepted for reasons such as:
* change of mind
* customs delays
* minor differences in condition
* color differences
* texture variations
* size impression differences
* natural signs of age and wear
However, if severe loss or damage during shipping is officially confirmed by the carrier’s insurance, we will respond within the scope of the insurance coverage.
For customers in the UK and EU, applicable consumer protection laws and cooling-off rights will take precedence where required by law.

Safety & Usage:
These items are decorative vintage or antique pieces intended for adult collectors.
They are not toys and are not suitable for direct food use.
Vintage ceramics may contain historical materials or glazes that do not meet modern food safety standards.
We cannot guarantee suitability for modern food, beverage, dishwasher, microwave, oven, or direct cooking use.
Please enjoy them as decorative objects that bring quiet beauty and history into your space.
Handle with care and avoid prolonged exposure to moisture, direct sunlight, or heat.

Liability Disclaimer:
We cannot be held responsible for any accidents, damage, allergic reactions, injury, loss, or issues resulting from the use, handling, aging, restoration, transportation, or storage of vintage or antique items.
All products are sold as decorative vintage collectibles, and customers are responsible for proper handling, display, usage, and storage.
By completing your purchase, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.

Additional Notes by Region:
■ United States
State taxes, such as Sales Tax, may be collected according to local regulations.
California Proposition 65:
Some vintage items may contain historical materials such as natural lacquer, pigments, metals, or antique finishes. This notice is provided for informational purposes only.
■ European Union (EU)
Our shop is not registered for IOSS or EU VAT collection.
Import VAT, customs processing fees, handling charges, or other import-related charges may be collected upon delivery according to local regulations.
These charges are the responsibility of the buyer.
■ United Kingdom
Our shop is not registered for UK VAT collection.
Import VAT and related charges may be collected upon delivery.
The buyer will be considered the importer of record for customs purposes.
■ Switzerland, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand
Import VAT/GST, customs processing fees, handling fees, carrier fees, or other import-related charges may apply according to local regulations.
For Taiwan:
Registration with the EZ WAY app may be required for customs clearance.
■ Hong Kong
Hong Kong currently does not generally impose VAT/GST on imported goods.

Contact Us:
If you have any questions regarding our items, shipping, usage, dimensions, or condition, please feel free to contact us before purchasing.
We’re happy to assist you and will do our best to respond as promptly as possible.
Thank you for considering a piece from our kura — each item carries a quiet story shaped by time in Japan.
This piece is part of our curated collection discovered in rural Japan.
On our official website, we share:
– the story of the kura (traditional Japanese storehouse) where this item was discovered
– background on how similar objects were once used in everyday life
– exclusive collections and pieces not listed elsewhere
We hope these objects will continue their quiet journey with you.