TOKODO – Black-Red Blown Design

Arita ware is often called the origin of Japanese porcelain, a tradition that began more than four centuries ago in the hills of Saga Prefecture. Its legacy is one of elegance, innovation, and refinement — qualities that have made Arita porcelain beloved not only in Japan but throughout the world. With the Stream series, TOKODO offers a new interpretation of this timeless craft, a creation that bridges historical artistry with modern expression.

This striking serving dish embodies a minimalist yet powerful aesthetic. The form is defined by its gently curved surface — a shape that feels as fluid and natural as the movement of water itself. The modern silhouette departs from conventional expectations of Japanese tableware while maintaining a quiet reverence for the material and tradition. Its presence on the table is both subtle and commanding: understated in line, yet vibrant in character.

Among the three available finishes, the “Black-Red Blown” design stands out for its dramatic visual tension. The surface is layered with deep, smoky black, into which bursts of red emerge like embers in the dark. The interplay of these tones recalls lacquer work, calligraphic ink strokes, or even the faint glow of sunset caught in the horizon. It is a design that is at once modern and timeless, grounded in simplicity yet alive with dynamic energy.

Arita Porcelain: A Legacy of Refinement

The history of Arita ware stretches back to the early 17th century, when porcelain production first took root in Japan. For centuries, these works have graced the tables of tea masters, aristocrats, and collectors around the world. Arita porcelain became Japan’s first true export to Europe, where its purity of form and luminous glazes inspired generations of artisans and patrons alike.

Yet while the heritage is long and storied, Arita ware has never stood still. It has continually evolved, absorbing influences from abroad while refining uniquely Japanese sensibilities. The Stream series represents this spirit of renewal. Rather than repeating classical patterns, it strips the form back to essentials: a flowing curve, a clean silhouette, and colors chosen not as decoration but as expression. In this way, it offers a fresh vocabulary for contemporary dining, while remaining unmistakably part of the Arita tradition.

A Dish Designed for Modern Tables

With dimensions of 6.5 cm in length, 20 cm in width, and 3 cm in height, this serving dish is ideally suited for small plates, appetizers, or carefully composed hors d’oeuvres. Its elongated form encourages thoughtful presentation, giving each dish the space to breathe. Chefs and hosts alike will appreciate how its shape naturally guides the eye, highlighting the artistry of the food itself.

Placed at the center of the table, the Stream dish serves as both vessel and stage. The smooth porcelain surface provides a neutral canvas upon which colors and textures of cuisine can shine. In Japanese dining culture, harmony between vessel and food is considered essential: the plate should not dominate, but neither should it disappear. Here, balance is achieved with elegance.

The Three Designs

The Stream series offers three distinctive finishes, each created to resonate with different moods and settings. The “Black-Red Blown” is bold and contemporary, ideal for dramatic culinary presentations. A second design introduces softer, cooler tones, evoking the clarity of water and sky. A third embraces warmer, earth-inspired hues, perfect for natural and rustic cuisines. Together, they form a collection that allows the host or collector to choose according to taste and occasion.

The Perfect Gift

Beyond the table, the Stream dish makes a thoughtful and refined gift. Like all TOKODO offerings, each piece is wrapped in original paper, ribbon, and gift bag — a complimentary service that reflects the spirit of giving deeply rooted in Japanese culture. Whether for a wedding, housewarming, or professional gesture, the Stream series conveys not only beauty but also heritage.