An Inban Ware Cup: Stenciled Design

vlate nineteenth century
2 1/2" x 2 3/4" diameter, 6.5 cm x 7 cm diameter

Inban ware is a type of every day ceramic from old Japan that uses hand cut stencils to guide its design on to its surface: the stencils used for this purpose are very similar to those used in the katazome dyeing process, which makes Inban ware an interesting counterpart to folk textiles.

Inban ware was only produced for a narrow window of time, roughly from around 1878 to 1898.

Shown here is a cup, perhaps a soba choko or a soba broth cup, with a desirable design where Inban ware is concerned. The design is a komon, or all-over pattern featuring blurred cherry blossoms. These komon patterns on Inban ware are collectible in and of themselves.

What is also visible on this Inban ware cup is also a desirable detail, the joins where the stencil overlaps are quite clear and it is this "flaw" in the process of stenciling the cup that adds warmth and charm.

A delightful thing.

Recommended.