Dish with Vegetal Design

About 1650, Japanese potters in Arita and Hasami adopted Chinese ceramic methods, replacing earlier techniques originating in Korea. With firing tools and production processes drawn from the famed Longquan kilns of the Ming dynasty (1368–1644), they created large celadon bowls and plates. Although their raw material was local white clay, its high iron content resulted in a comparatively darker green glaze. To replicate Longquan’s distinctive “burnt tea” base, artisans brushed ferric glaze onto the foot rings before firing. They also carved or pressed decorative patterns into molds, enabling mass production of elegant celadon wares. These innovations marked a turning point: the integration of Chinese craftsmanship into Japanese porcelain production transformed the area into a leading center for refined celadons.