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Arita Yaki / Imari Yaki
Arita Yaki / Imari Yaki is a traditional porcelain, made in Saga prefecture Japan. The words, Arita Yaki and Imari Yaki, are almost equivalent terms. People called the works by a name of production area. It was fired around Arita and transported from the Imari port.
All the other Japanese porcelains started by following Arita Yaki methods. Arita Yaki started in the early 17th century, learning the methods of Jingdezhen that is the oldest production area of porcelain in China.
When China is confused in the late 17th century, alternatively Arita Yaki became famous in the world. In Meiji period, the evaluation is established by awarded at the world expositions.
Even now, Arita Yaki is produced for articles of daily use, and also as works of art.
Styles of Arita Yaki
There are several types in Arita Yaki, depending on their design and method. The types can not clearly be distinct from each other, however we pick up typical examples and explain them.
Old Imari mode
Blue and white wares
This is the first style, when multicolored paints can not be used or expensive. Simple beauty is found in these wares.
In the Edo period, they were produced in large amounts for domestic consumption.
Multicolored overglaze painting
Multicolored paints was invented, and developed into various styles.
Old Kutani mode
This style is themed blue, yellow, and green colors.
In the past, this type of Arita Yaki is included in old Kutani Yaki, which is produced in Kanazawa prefecture, because they are similar to present Kutani Yaki design.
However in the recent research, it is verified that some of them are produced in Arita.
Gold-painted porcelain
The design is precise and various colors are used in this style. Typically, gold is painted.
This type of Arityaki is aimed at exporting to Europe. Usually, it is a large crock, vase, plate, and so on.
Kakiemon mode
Kakiemon mode is themed red, and milky white used on the background. Taking enough blank creates an impressive beauty of red color.
Now the 14th Kakiemon has inherited Kakiemon's arts.
Nabeshima mode
Nabeshima mode is themed blue, green, red, and yellow. The design is purely Japanese taste. Precise and gorgeous.
Nabeshima Kingdom in the Saga prefecture made this type of Arita Yaki, for the presents to other kingdoms.
Imaemon Kiln has inherited Nabeshima's arts.
Current Arita Yaki potteries are more or less depending on the above traditional styles.