Imaizumi Imaemon is a leading pottery family in Arita, having carried on the traditions of the Nabeshima Domain kilns since the Edo period; the name has been passed down through the generations. Focusing in particular on Iro-Nabeshima, they have established a world of elegant coloured porcelain by harmoniously combining indigo-blue underglaze with overglaze decorations in red, yellow and green. The Imaemon Kiln’s Iro-Nabeshima technique has been designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Japan, and the current 14th-generation Imaizumi Imaemon was recognised in 2014 as a Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Properties (Living National Treasure) for ‘Colour-painted Porcelain’.
When viewing Imaemon’s works, one senses a mysterious tranquillity despite their vibrant colour-painted designs. The compositions, which leave ample white space, the fine, elegant lines, and the restrained arrangement of red, yellow and green possess a sense of tension that goes beyond mere ‘beautiful decoration’. The way floral and natural motifs emerge against the bluish porcelain surface makes the vessel itself appear as though it were a Japanese painting.
What I find particularly appealing is the dignity of these pieces: they do not flaunt their opulence, yet their superior quality is apparent at a glance. I believe the true strength of the Imaemon name lies in the way it has preserved the tradition of Iro-Nabeshima whilst layering new forms of beauty upon it—from the 13th generation’s ‘Fukizumi’ and ‘Usuzumi’ techniques to the 14th generation’s contemporary expressions.
