A 19th Century Inban Ware Tea Cup: Komon Pattern

2 1/4" x 3", 5.5 cm x 7.5 cm

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 teacup with a desirable design where Inban ware is concerned. The design is a very small komon, or all-over pattern. These komon patterns on Inban ware are collectible: this one seems to show abstracted ships on a stylized ocean, rendered as a repeat design.

What is also visible on this Inban ware teacup 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.