Illustrated is a group of three Shino hachi decorated with
underglaze iron and vivid over glaze enamels imitating itomaki, thread spools.
These classic plates were made and designed by the 20th century master, Kitaoji
Rosanjin. The simple construction and form of the hachi is well articulated
with the under and over glaze techniques and as always, Rosanjin had the pieces
in use in mind, prior to making them. For Rosanjin, the raison d'etre for
pottery was their performance and use for food, flower arrangement, etc. and
these plates are no different. I have seen these plates in use for crispy
tempura, vivid crimson maguro sashimi and various sushi over the years. They
are as delightful in use as they are in the "waiting" state. Each plate
is finished with a vivid red enamel "RO" square on the bottoms.
"The finest food is light and plain in flavor, just as
the finest antiques are those of simple lines." Kitaoji Rosanjin
(1883-1959)
(Photo used with the kind permission of a private collector
and exceptional chef.)
.JPG)