{"product_id":"japanese-sake-set-arita-waare-kanzan-blue-and-white-porcelain-hand-painted-floral-fluted-tokkurri-carafe-and-ochoko-cup-japan-arts","title":"Japanese Sake Set | Arita Ware Kanzan | Blue and White Porcelain | Hand Painted Floral | Fluted Tokkurri Carafe and Ochoko Cup | Japan Arts","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Story Behind This Piece:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the winter of 1960, in the village of Geihoku, nestled deep within the Chugoku Mountains of northern Hiroshima Prefecture, a record-breaking snowfall had transformed an old estate—home to a long line of village headmen—into a world of pure white. Inside the living room of that house, a newly acquired black-and-white television flickered, bringing news of a rapidly changing world. Yet, stepping inside the thick walls of the \"Kura\" (storehouse), one was met with a silence that had remained unchanged for centuries. It was in this very year, 1960, that this Arita-ware Tokkuri (sake decanter) and Choko (sake cup) set arrived at the home, presented by relatives as a \"modern masterpiece\" to commemorate the head of the house's 60th birthday (Kanreki).\u003cbr\u003eThe year 1960 was a pivotal turning point for Japanese crafts. As Japan emerged from post-war reconstruction and people finally regained a sense of \"spiritual leisure\" in their lives, Arita-ware kilns were seeking sophisticated designs that protected traditional techniques while harmonizing with modern dining tables. The mark \"Kanzan\" (観山) on the bottom is proof of a studio in Arita that resisted the waves of mass production, insisting instead on meticulous \"Handwork\" (Te-shigoto). Look at the surface of this Tokkuri. The finely crafted vertical \"Shinogi\" (ridges) serve a functional purpose as a non-slip grip, while simultaneously casting delicate shadows on the white porcelain depending on how the light hits it. This is the pinnacle of \"Yo-no-bi\" (the beauty of use) pursued by craftsmen of that era.\u003cbr\u003eThe floral patterns are painted with the soul of an artist, each stroke rendered in \"Gosu,\" a deep indigo pigment. In 1960, painters were sublimating ancient, realistic patterns into more modern and approachable designs. These charming flowers, arranged with geometric stability, possess an aesthetic reminiscent of Scandinavian design—a clear reflection of the \"Wayo-setchu\" (blending of Japanese and Western styles) beauty that Japanese people admired at the time. During the harsh winters of northern Hiroshima, as the family watched the embers glow in the \"Irori\" (sunken hearth), they would share local sake warmed in this Tokkuri. The sensation of the cool yet clinging white porcelain against the lips was surely the ultimate luxury for the head of the house after a day of labor.\u003cbr\u003eHowever, why was this beautiful set tucked away in the depths of the storehouse without being used for very long? The reason lies in the irony of the \"modernization of life\" that accelerated from the 1960s onward. As the Japanese people rode the wave of rapid economic growth, their attention shifted toward more convenient plastic products, flamboyant Western tableware, and mass-produced glassware. The \"Kanzan\" set, once the pride of the house, was eventually pushed aside as \"old-fashioned\" and gradually disappeared even from the dining tables of special occasions. Furthermore, as the forestry industry that supported the family declined, the family moved their lives to the city, and the vast old folk house (Kominka), along with its precious memories, was sealed behind the heavy doors of the storehouse.\u003cbr\u003eMore than half a century later, in 2026, these vessels have seen the light of day once more through a miraculous connection. When it was decided that the storehouse would be demolished, a grandchild of the original owner visited for a final farewell. From amidst layers of old newspaper—bearing headlines about the 1960 Anpo protests—they discovered this set. Remarkably, despite the passage of over 60 years, the transparency of the white porcelain and the vividness of the indigo remained as fresh as if they had just been taken out of the kiln yesterday. This is a testament to the consistent humidity maintained within the Hiroshima storehouse and the love of successive owners who treated the set with care, hoping for the day it might be used again.\u003cbr\u003eToday, the \"Mingei value\" of this set transcends the realm of mere antiques; it has become a spiritual compass for those of us living in the modern age. The concept of wabi-sabi is not just about admiring old things, but about perceiving the prayers of the craftsmen and the accumulation of time within them. The confident lines drawn by the 1960 craftsman radiate a \"human beauty\" entirely unrelated to digital precision. The slight weight felt in the hand, the pleasant \"toku-toku\" sound of sake being poured—these are the rich experiences that awaken the five senses, something we are beginning to lose in a modern society that pursues only efficiency.\u003cbr\u003eAs you share this story, you become the new protagonist in the narrative of these vessels that began in 1960. We invite you to incorporate this \"Kanzan\" set, which once comforted those waiting for spring in the mountains of Hiroshima, into your modern life. It is not merely the act of using \"old dishes,\" but rather the act of inviting the soul of an era when Japanese handwork shone brightest into your daily routine. Pour a warm cup of sake, gaze upon the indigo flowers, and in that moment, the silence of a snowy 1960 night and the rich flow of wabi-sabi time will surely begin to surround you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition \u0026amp; Notes:\u003cbr\u003ePlease note before purchasing.\u003cbr\u003eThis is a vintage or antique item sold as-is.\u003cbr\u003eDue to age and long-term storage, natural signs of wear and aging may be present, including:\u003cbr\u003e* small scratches or scuffs\u003cbr\u003e* fading or discoloration\u003cbr\u003e* glaze irregularities or imperfections\u003cbr\u003e* crackling (crazing), kiln marks, or gold wear\u003cbr\u003e* slight warping or age-related changes in wooden parts\u003cbr\u003eVintage and antique items may also carry natural storage-related scents from wood, paper, lacquer, smoke, or long-term preservation environments.\u003cbr\u003eThese characteristics are part of the individuality, historical character, and quiet beauty that vintage Japanese items carry.\u003cbr\u003eThey are not flaws, but the gentle traces of time.\u003cbr\u003eWe kindly ask for your understanding that vintage and antique items differ from newly manufactured products.\u003cbr\u003eWe do our best to show all notable details in the photos, but some small imperfections may not be fully visible.\u003cbr\u003ePlease review the dimensions carefully before purchasing, as photos may make items appear larger or smaller depending on display settings and shooting conditions.\u003cbr\u003ePlease note that colors may appear slightly different depending on lighting conditions and screen settings.\u003cbr\u003eOnly the items shown in the photos are included unless otherwise stated.\u003cbr\u003eDisplay stands, decorative props, or accessories used for photography are not included unless explicitly stated.\u003cbr\u003eThank you for appreciating the character and spirit of these timeworn pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDimensions:\u003cbr\u003e■Tokkuri\u003cbr\u003eHeight: 12.5 cm (4.92 in)\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 6.5 cm (2.56 in)\u003cbr\u003eDepth: 6.5 cm (2.56 in)\u003cbr\u003eBase Diameter: 4.0 cm (1.57 in)\u003cbr\u003eRim Diameter: 2.6 × 2.6 cm (1.02 × 1.02 in)\u003cbr\u003eMaximum Circumference: 21.0 cm (8.27 in)\u003cbr\u003eWeight: 115 g (4.06 oz)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e■Cup\u003cbr\u003eHeight: 5.5 cm (2.17 in)\u003cbr\u003eBase Diameter: 3.2 cm (1.26 in)\u003cbr\u003eRim Diameter: 4.2 × 4.2 cm (1.65 × 1.65 in)\u003cbr\u003eMaximum Circumference: 13.0 cm (5.12 in)\u003cbr\u003eWeight: 50 g (1.76 oz)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShipping Information:\u003cbr\u003eAll items are shipped from Hiroshima, Japan.\u003cbr\u003eShipping costs are not included in the product price and will be calculated and charged separately at checkout.\u003cbr\u003eOrders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment is confirmed.\u003cbr\u003eFor shipments to the United States, we use DHL Express with full tracking and insurance.\u003cbr\u003eFor all other available destinations, orders are generally shipped via Japan Post EMS with tracking and insurance.\u003cbr\u003eThe shipping method may be changed when necessary depending on the destination, package size, service availability, and shipping conditions.\u003cbr\u003eEach item is carefully packed with protective materials to help ensure safe delivery.\u003cbr\u003eEstimated delivery time is approximately 7–14 business days. Delivery times may vary depending on customs procedures, local delivery conditions, weather disruptions, customs inspections, and other circumstances beyond our control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInternational Buyers – Duties, VAT \u0026amp; Taxes:\u003cbr\u003eShipments to the United States\u003cbr\u003eFor shipments to the United States, shipping costs and import customs duties are not included in the displayed product price.\u003cbr\u003eShipping costs will be calculated and charged separately at checkout.\u003cbr\u003eApplicable import duties and other import-related charges will be calculated and collected separately during checkout where supported by our checkout system.\u003cbr\u003eState and local taxes, including Sales Tax, may also be calculated and collected at checkout according to applicable regulations.\u003cbr\u003eThe total amount shown at checkout may therefore include:\u003cbr\u003ethe product price\u003cbr\u003eshipping costs\u003cbr\u003eapplicable import duties\u003cbr\u003eapplicable state or local taxes\u003cbr\u003eIf any customs duties, customs processing fees, carrier handling fees, brokerage fees, taxes, or other import-related charges are not collected at checkout, they may be collected separately by DHL or the relevant customs authority before or upon delivery.\u003cbr\u003eShipments Outside the United States\u003cbr\u003eFor shipments outside the United States, shipping costs, import duties, VAT, GST, consumption taxes, customs processing fees, carrier handling fees, and other local import-related charges are not included in the displayed product price.\u003cbr\u003eShipping costs will be calculated and charged separately at checkout.\u003cbr\u003eOrders are generally shipped via Japan Post EMS.\u003cbr\u003eImport duties, VAT, GST, consumption taxes, customs clearance fees, postal handling fees, carrier fees, and other local import-related charges are the responsibility of the buyer.\u003cbr\u003eThese charges may be collected before or upon delivery by Japan Post EMS, the local postal service, the relevant customs authority, or another local delivery provider.\u003cbr\u003eThe amount and collection method are determined by the laws, regulations, and customs procedures of the destination country.\u003cbr\u003eFor many international orders, VAT, GST, customs duties, and import-related processing fees are collected at the time of delivery.\u003cbr\u003ePlease note that payment of the product price and shipping cost does not mean that import duties, VAT, GST, or other local import-related charges have been paid.\u003cbr\u003eWe do not mark items as gifts or declare a value lower than the actual purchase price for customs purposes.\u003cbr\u003ePlease ensure that your shipping address, telephone number, email address, and other contact information are accurate and complete.\u003cbr\u003eIf a package is returned due to an incorrect or incomplete address, unpaid customs duties, unpaid VAT\/GST, unpaid import-related charges, refusal of delivery, or failed delivery attempts, the original shipping cost, return shipping cost, customs-related charges, and any reshipping costs will be the buyer’s responsibility.\u003cbr\u003eInternational deliveries may occasionally experience delays due to customs procedures, inspections, local postal conditions, or other circumstances beyond our control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDamage During Shipping:\u003cbr\u003eIn the unlikely event that your item arrives damaged, please contact us within 10 days of delivery and provide clear photos of:\u003cbr\u003e* the damaged item\u003cbr\u003e* the outer shipping box\u003cbr\u003e* the inside packaging condition\u003cbr\u003e* the shipping label\u003cbr\u003ePlease keep all packaging materials and the damaged item until the shipping carrier completes its investigation.\u003cbr\u003eMinor imperfections consistent with the age and nature of vintage or antique items are not considered shipping damage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReturns \u0026amp; Refunds:\u003cbr\u003eAll items are vintage or antique and sold as-is.\u003cbr\u003eDue to the nature of vintage and antique items, we generally do not accept returns, cancellations, or refunds except where required by applicable law or covered by shipping insurance.\u003cbr\u003eReturns or refunds are not accepted for reasons such as:\u003cbr\u003e* change of mind\u003cbr\u003e* customs delays\u003cbr\u003e* minor differences in condition\u003cbr\u003e* color differences\u003cbr\u003e* texture variations\u003cbr\u003e* size impression differences\u003cbr\u003e* natural signs of age and wear\u003cbr\u003eHowever, if severe loss or damage during shipping is officially confirmed through the shipping carrier’s insurance investigation, we will respond within the scope of the applicable insurance coverage.\u003cbr\u003eFor customers in the United Kingdom and European Union, applicable consumer protection laws, statutory cancellation rights, and cooling-off rights will take precedence where required by law.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSafety \u0026amp; Usage:\u003cbr\u003eThese items are decorative vintage or antique pieces intended for adult collectors.\u003cbr\u003eThey are not toys and are not suitable for direct food use.\u003cbr\u003eVintage ceramics may contain historical materials, pigments, or glazes that do not meet modern food safety standards.\u003cbr\u003eWe cannot guarantee suitability for use with modern food or beverages, or for use in a dishwasher, microwave, oven, over direct heat, or for direct cooking.\u003cbr\u003ePlease enjoy these items as decorative objects that bring quiet beauty and history into your space.\u003cbr\u003eHandle with care and avoid prolonged exposure to moisture, direct sunlight, or heat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLiability Disclaimer:\u003cbr\u003eTo the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, we cannot be held responsible for accidents, damage, allergic reactions, injury, loss, or other issues resulting from the improper use, handling, aging, restoration, transportation, display, or storage of vintage or antique items.\u003cbr\u003eAll products are sold as decorative vintage collectibles.\u003cbr\u003eCustomers are responsible for the appropriate handling, display, use, and storage of each item.\u003cbr\u003eNothing in this disclaimer excludes or limits any rights or remedies that cannot legally be excluded under applicable consumer protection laws.\u003cbr\u003eBy completing your purchase, you acknowledge that you have reviewed and accepted the product description, condition information, safety information, and applicable terms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdditional Notes by Region:\u003cbr\u003e■ United States\u003cbr\u003eFor shipments to the United States, import customs duties are not included in the displayed product price.\u003cbr\u003eApplicable import duties will be calculated and collected separately at checkout where supported.\u003cbr\u003eShipping costs are also calculated and charged separately at checkout.\u003cbr\u003eState and local taxes, including Sales Tax, may be calculated and collected at checkout according to applicable regulations.\u003cbr\u003eCalifornia Proposition 65\u003cbr\u003eSome vintage items may contain historical materials such as natural lacquer, pigments, metals, ceramics, or antique finishes.\u003cbr\u003eThis notice is provided for informational purposes only.\u003cbr\u003e■ European Union\u003cbr\u003eOur shop does not include EU import VAT, customs duties, customs clearance fees, handling charges, or other import-related charges in the displayed product price.\u003cbr\u003eThese charges may be collected before or upon delivery by Japan Post EMS, the local postal service, or the relevant customs authority.\u003cbr\u003eThese charges are the responsibility of the buyer.\u003cbr\u003eApplicable consumer protection rights under EU law remain unaffected.\u003cbr\u003e■ United Kingdom\u003cbr\u003eFor eligible orders, Etsy may collect UK VAT at checkout in accordance with applicable UK regulations.\u0026amp;nbsp;\u003cbr\u003eFor higher-value orders, import VAT, customs duties, and any applicable handling fees may be collected upon delivery.\u0026amp;nbsp;\u003cbr\u003eThe buyer will be considered the importer of record for customs purposes.\u0026amp;nbsp;\u003cbr\u003eThis product is intended for decorative use only and is not suitable for food contact.\u0026amp;nbsp;\u003cbr\u003eUK Authorised Representative: Pointblank Promotions Ltd London, United Kingdom This product is shipped directly from Japan.\u0026amp;nbsp;\u003cbr\u003eThe buyer is responsible for all import procedures and will be the importer of record for customs purposes.\u003cbr\u003e■ Switzerland, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand\u003cbr\u003eImport duties, VAT, GST, customs processing fees, handling fees, postal fees, carrier fees, or other import-related charges may apply according to local regulations.\u003cbr\u003eThese charges may be collected before or upon delivery and are the responsibility of the buyer.\u003cbr\u003eFor customers in Taiwan:\u003cbr\u003eRegistration with the EZ WAY app may be required for customs clearance.\u003cbr\u003e■ Hong Kong\u003cbr\u003eHong Kong does not generally impose VAT or GST on imported goods at present.\u003cbr\u003eHowever, customs clearance fees, postal handling fees, carrier fees, or other charges may apply depending on the shipment and delivery conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContact Us:\u003cbr\u003eIf you have any questions regarding our items, shipping, intended use, dimensions, condition, or import charges, please feel free to contact us before purchasing.\u003cbr\u003eWe are happy to assist you and will do our best to respond as promptly as possible.\u003cbr\u003eThank you for considering a piece from our kura. Each item carries a quiet story shaped by time in Japan.\u003cbr\u003eThis piece is part of our curated collection discovered in rural Japan.\u003cbr\u003eOn our official website, we share:\u003cbr\u003e– the story of the kura, or traditional Japanese storehouse, where this item was discovered\u2028– background on how similar objects were once used in everyday Japanese life\u2028– exclusive collections and pieces not listed elsewhere\u003cbr\u003eWe hope these objects will continue their quiet journey with you.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"meguru","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":60372154384670,"sku":"A01-273","price":14890.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0954\/8451\/0494\/files\/IMG_4997.jpg?v=1792374534","url":"https:\/\/megurujapan.com\/products\/japanese-sake-set-arita-waare-kanzan-blue-and-white-porcelain-hand-painted-floral-fluted-tokkurri-carafe-and-ochoko-cup-japan-arts","provider":"meguru","version":"1.0","type":"link"}