Recreating Aigo Kutani in the Modern Era The Imperial Household Agency's Designated Kiln Choza Yamamoto Since producing the Imperial Couple's Crested Wash Cups in 1990, Choza Yamamoto of Myosen Pottery Studio has received requests from the Imperial Family almost every year. His works have been used to entertain dignitaries, including the Emperor's enthronement ceremony and guests such as Prince Charles and Princess Diana. At Yamamoto's workshop in Kaga City, Ishikawa Prefecture, the painting is primarily done by his elder brother, Choza, and the molding by his younger brother, Atsushi, along with their apprentices. Most of the tableware is made using the "kata-uchi" technique. This is an old technique of covering a clay base thrown on a potter's wheel with a mold to transfer the shape, and there are only a handful of craftsmen nationwide who can use this technique today. The finished pieces have a very warm feel. Brief History 1953: Born in Ishikawa Prefecture 1990: Produced the Imperial Couple's Crested Wash Cups; designed the chrysanthemum pattern for all Japanese tableware, including lacquerware, used in the enthronement ceremony. 1991: Supplied Japanese tableware for the Imperial Household Agency's "Kyōen no Gi" (Banquet Ceremony). 1992: Produced celebratory confectionery containers for Princess Mako of Akishino. 1993: Produced hors d'oeuvre plates used in the "Kyōen no Gi" for the wedding of the Crown Prince and Princess Masako. 1994: Certified as a Kutani ware traditional craftsman by the Minister of International Trade and Industry. 1995: Produced celebratory confectionery containers for Princess Kako of Akishino. 2000: Received a request from the Japanese government to produce a white porcelain Kinrande (gold brocade) large plate for the 125th anniversary of the Treaty of the Meter at the International Bureau of Weights and Measures. Residing in Kaga City, Ishikawa Prefecture Size: 30cm in diameter, 5.7cm in height. The lid of the box is slightly warped, but it closes. * The next shipping date is February 15th (Sunday). Thank you for your understanding.