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Plum Shippo Ware Medium Pen Tray

Sale price$55.00 USD

In stock

This pen tray, adorned with charming plum blossoms against a beautiful golden background, is a traditional Japanese craft known as Shippo ware (Japanese cloisonné). Each design is meticulously hand-painted with glassy enamel on copper and fired at a high temperature of around 800 degrees, resulting in colors that are more vivid than those of ceramics. Because it is made from glass, the colors and patterns never fade, allowing it to be passed down from generation to generation.

The tray is sized to comfortably hold one pen with some space to spare, making it perfect for adding a touch of Japanese elegance and vibrancy to your desk.

Imagining this piece of Shippo ware, with its origins dating back to the 6th or 7th century, gracing your desk overseas is truly wonderful. In Japan, plum blossoms are considered very auspicious. They are among the first flowers to bloom in the year and symbolize strong vitality, often associated with warding off illness and wishing for longevity. If you are looking for a gift for someone who appreciates craftsmanship, Japanese tradition, stationery, or journaling, this tray is highly recommended.

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Details

  • Size: 2.75" × 9.4" (7 cm × 24 cm)
  • Weight: 5.7 oz (163 g)
  • Material: Glass on Copper
  • Note: Each piece is uniquely handmade, so expect some individual differences.

Japanese Art of Copper and Glass by Saikosha

Saikosha, the largest kiln producing Shippo ware in Japan, has made significant contributions to the long history of Shippo ware, which dates back to the 6th or 7th century. Their mission is to "continuously challenge the spirit of bringing tradition to life in the modern era." Despite the gradual decline in demand for traditional crafts, they strive to preserve the beauty of Shippo ware for contemporary times. They create various items, including vases, plates, pen trays, and accessories, that are cherished by modern audiences.

Compared to other famous traditional crafts like Wajima lacquerware, Shippo ware has become less well-known in Japan. However, its vivid colors and unfading beauty, achieved through its glass enamel, have garnered a dedicated following, and it is often sold in high-end department stores. We invite you to enjoy this beauty in your country, right on your desk.

Gold rectangular tray with plum blossom design in white and red, next to a patterned fabric and glass pen, on a light wooden surface.
Plum Shippo Ware Medium Pen Tray Sale price$55.00 USD