Fired with natural wood ash, this plate carries the quiet marks of the kiln on its surface — the glaze settling in tones of grey and straw where the ash fell, shifting from center to rim. The surface gives food a quiet ground to rest against, never competing with what is placed on it. Shinichi Kotsuji forms and fires each plate by hand in Japan, working at a pace that allows every piece to receive full attention. The result is a plate made to hold food well — and to be noticed on the table. Japanese ceramics have been treasured across the world for generations, and a plate like this brings that living tradition to your own table. Formed and finished by hand. The glaze settles differently on every piece, so no two are alike. Yours will differ a little from the one photographed — that is the hand of the maker. Material: Japanese pottery (ceramic) Made in Japan Artisan: Shinichi Kotsuji Size: 11.5 × 3 cm (4.5 × 1.2 in) Because each piece is individually made, slight variations in form and glaze are the mark of a true handmade object.