Utsutsugawa Ware Plate — Hand-Painted White Heron (Shirasagi) Motif, Swirled Brown Ground

A plate in the Utsutsugawa-yaki (現川焼) tradition — a distinctive Nagasaki ceramic style, originally produced in the Utsutsugawa district from the late 17th century before disappearing after only about 50 years, earning it the nickname the "phantom kiln" of Japanese ceramics. The tradition has since been revived by dedicated kilns researching and reconstructing the original techniques, and is recognized as an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Nagasaki Prefecture.

The piece shows the ware's signature elements clearly: a rich, dark brown glazed ground with the characteristic swirled, brushed surface texture radiating outward across the wide rim — a hallmark decorative technique unique to Utsutsugawa ware that creates visible depth and movement. Set against this ground is the kiln's celebrated White Heron (Shirasagi) motif — a single white egret painted in soft, restrained brushwork, standing among a few loosely rendered reeds. The heron is one of Utsutsugawa ware's most iconic and recognizable designs, traditionally regarded as an auspicious symbol of purity, prosperity, and new beginnings.

The reverse is fully glazed in matching brown, with a double-ring footring and the same swirled texture visible in the central medallion, along with a faint signature mark.

Details:

• Origin: Utsutsugawa ware (現川焼), Nagasaki, Japan — a historic ware revived by contemporary kilns continuing the original techniques; specific kiln/maker mark present but not fully legible

• Form: Round shallow plate, wide textured rim, glazed footring base

• Glaze: Deep brown glaze with the characteristic swirled/brushed rim texture unique to Utsutsugawa ware

• Decoration: Hand-painted White Heron (Shirasagi) motif among reeds — Utsutsugawa's signature design; faint signature mark on reverse

• Base: Fully glazed, double-ring footring, matching swirl pattern

• Condition: Good vintage/secondhand condition — please check photos for chips, glaze wear, or scratches from use

• Quantity: Single piece

• Dimensions: approx. (Diameter) 20–21cm