*SHIPPING OPTIONS VARY DEPENDING ON THE DESTINATION, PLEASE SCROLL TO THE END OF THIS LISTING FOR MORE DETAILS.

This listing is for a pair of Mino-ware plates made around 20 years ago.  Each plate is shaped like a hyotan and decorated with blue bamboo.  The gourd, or hyotan as it is known in Japanese, is an auspicious symbol linked to longevity and fertility. They are also thought to symbolize happiness and success, thus making them a popular motif during New Year.  Bamboo is also a popular motif because it is one of the three friends of winter.  Bamboo, matsu pine and ume are admired in both Japan and China as they do not wither against the cold of winter.  All three plants are regarded as auspicious and are believed to symbolise endurance and strength.   These plates are ideal for serving sweets and are suitable for daily use.  The mark of the kiln can be found on the back of each plate. 

Mino-ware refers to pottery produced in what was formerly the old Mino Province. Early examples of Mino-ware were predominantly ash-glazed stoneware pieces. Later however the use of the potter’s wheel, as well as a greater variety of glazes, began to characterize what is often thought to ideally represent Mino pottery today. Larger production kilns like Kozangama in Gifu Prefecture produce wares similar to Imari and Arita-ware. Various other kilns specialize in producing budget priced tableware, along with high end wares for various brand name stores and franchises around the country such as Tachikichi in Kyoto.

Size

H.1.8cm (0.7”) x L.23cm (9”) x W.14cm (5.5”)

Condition

Both plates are in very good condition with no chips or cracks.

THESE ARE SHIPPING ESTIMATES BASED ON THE CURRENT GLOBAL SITUATION                                                                 

**Germany, France, Greece, Spain, Poland, Austria, Slovakia, Lithuania, Slovenia:  NO SHIPPING.  Very strict and expensive packaging laws in place and we are not licensed to send products to these countries.  We have no plan to register at this time because the process is in some cases very expensive and complicated, plus each country has its own set of regulations and application process. 

**USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, Norway: Airmail Small Packet (approx. 15-28 days).  Combined shipping available up to 2kgs for Airmail Small Packet (please send us a message).

**Asia:  Airmail Small Packet (approx. 15-21 days).  Combined shipping available up to 2kgs for Airmail Small Packet (please send us a message).

**Central Asia, Middle East, South Africa, Brazil, Mexico:  EMS Express 10-15 days.

**Russia:  No shipping methods available.