Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art, Kanazawa, Japan

The National Craft Museum was moved from Tokyo to Kanazawa, but was closed when we were there—luckily we were able to see the Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art, which has an excellent permanent display of Kutani pottery.

Kutani ware is a pottery produced in the Kaga region of Ishikawa Prefecture, with a history spanning over 350 years. It is characterized by the heavy brilliance of the five colors of navy blue, red, purple, green, and yellow that are applied to the bold and daring lines. Its long history has evolved through the tireless efforts and enthusiasm of people who have sought innovation while maintaining tradition. These are Edo era mostly but this type of pottery is still made in this region.