• A front-facing view of the bowing Fukusuke doll, with its head tilted down, showing the glossy black hair, blue polka-dot headscarf, and a small decorative accessory on the red felt mat.
  • A different angled side view of the bowing Fukusuke doll, showcasing its intricate kimono design and a small decorative accessory in front.
  • A side view of the Kutani Fukusuke doll in a deep bowing position, dressed in a black kimono with white geometric patterns and a blue polka-dot headscarf, placed on a red felt mat.
  • A rear view of the bowing Fukusuke doll, displaying the blue polka-dot headscarf and kanji characters on the kimono’s back, with its rounded shape prominent.
  • A wooden storage box with Japanese calligraphy on the lid, designed for the Choemon Kiln Rakugaki Kano Fukusuke Kutani Doll.
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Choemon Kiln

Choemon Kiln Rakugaki Kano Fukusuke Kutani Doll

Choemon Kiln Rakugaki Kano Fukusuke Kutani Doll

$339.00 USD
$339.00 USD
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The Choemon Kiln Rakugaki Kano Fukusuke Kutani Doll is a captivating fusion of tradition and contemporary artistry. Inspired by the auspicious Fukusuke figure, this Kutani porcelain doll embodies prosperity and good fortune, a cherished symbol in Japanese culture. Choemon Kiln reinterprets this classic motif with their distinctive "Rakugaki" (doodle) style, blending playful hand-painted details with masterful craftsmanship.

Each doll is meticulously crafted using time-honored Kutani ware techniques, renowned for their vivid overglaze decoration. The bold yet delicate brushwork gives the piece a modern charm while honoring the heritage of Kutani ceramics. Ideal as a collector’s item or a meaningful gift, this Fukusuke doll carries the essence of Japanese artistry, making it a timeless addition to any space.

Detail

Size: W 3.7in x L 3.1in x H 2.5in / W 9.3cm x L 7.8cm x H 6.3cm
Material: Porcelain

Care ＆ Use

  • Placement: Display the doll in a safe place, and keep out of reach of children. Small size may pose a choking hazard.
  • Cleaning: Use a dust blower (such as one for cameras or keyboards) or a soft makeup brush to gently remove dust. The doll can be rinsed with water if necessary, but handle it carefully to prevent damage.
  • Uniqueness: Artisans handcrafted and hand-painted each doll, so slight variations may occur. These differences are a natural part of the craftsmanship and may not exactly match the reference photos.
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The Legacy of Kutani Ware

Kutani ware, or Kutani-yaki, is a celebrated Japanese porcelain style that originated in the mid-17th century in the Kaga domain, now part of Ishikawa Prefecture. Renowned for its vibrant colors and intricate designs, Kutani ware has experienced periods of both prominence and decline, mirroring Japan's cultural and economic shifts.

The initial phase, known as "Ko-Kutani," began around 1655 in the village of Kutani. These early pieces were notable for their bold aesthetics and the use of five primary colors: green, blue, yellow, purple, and red. Mysteriously, production ceased approximately fifty years later, and the reasons remain unclear.

A revival, termed "Saiko-Kutani," commenced in the early 19th century. Artisans introduced new techniques and motifs, including detailed landscapes and fine brushwork, expanding the artistic scope of Kutani ware. During the Meiji era (1868–1912), Kutani ware gained international recognition, showcased at world expositions and exported globally. Today, it stands as a symbol of Japanese ceramic artistry, blending traditional methods with contemporary designs.

Brand History

Founded in 1879, Choemon Kiln is a distinguished Kutani ware producer located in Terai, Ishikawa Prefecture. The kiln was established by the first-generation Choemon, who initially operated a wholesaling business for Kutani ware, distributing products nationwide through connections like Toyama's medicine peddlers. Recognizing the importance of quality control and artistic integrity, the third-generation head built an in-house workshop and kiln in 1941, transitioning into full-scale production. This move ensured oversight of every process, from clay preparation to painting, solidifying the kiln's commitment to craftsmanship.

Today, under the leadership of the sixth-generation head, Keigo Kamide, Choemon Kiln continues to honor its rich heritage while embracing innovation. Keigo, a graduate of Tokyo University of the Arts, returned to his ancestral workshop in 2006. He has since spearheaded collaborations with contemporary artists and designers, creating pieces that resonate with modern sensibilities while preserving traditional techniques. The kiln's portfolio ranges from classic tableware to avant-garde art pieces, contributing to the ongoing evolution and global appreciation of Kutani ware.