Newsletter (July 4, 2025, Sakaida Kakiemon XV, Inoue Manji, Kakiemon Kiln)

Hello everyone.
July has arrived and the rainy season has already ended.
For the next three months until the September equinox,
I wonder if I'll have to fight this heatwave every day.
To be honest, it's annoying.
But, since you're here, why not just try to enjoy the summer?

I think there are many people who keep medaka fish these days, and I have been keeping them for several years now.
I'm having fun while giving birth to children.
In fact, a few years ago, an architect client from Tokyo purchased a large Karatsu vase that had been presented to us, saying that he wanted to use it as a killifish bowl.

Karatsu ware is a vessel that values ​​the "beauty of utility,"
One way to enjoy medaka is to let them swim in a jar, water jar, or large pot.
This may seem a little unwelcome to ceramic artists, but I like to float water plants and
It is also recommended to sink beautiful stones into the pot to create a contrast with the glaze.

Karatsu ware is not only used in tea ceremony, cooking, and sake,
The vessels will surely be delighted when used in a variety of situations.

Please enjoy this hot summer, which looks set to be a long one, with Karatsu ware.

This week's Ichibankan online store features Kakiemon Sensei's new sake cups and several kiln-made items.
We will also be introducing one new piece by Inoue Manji.

So, take care of yourself and have a great weekend.

Naoki Sakamoto, Owner of Ichibankan