Japanese Plates, Deep Blue with Plum Blossom – Set of 2

Two large deep blue plates where fine flowering branches stretch to the edge.

The dense, softly nuanced blue glaze is the background for fine dark branches that fall in gentle curves. They carry small white flowers with yellow hearts, scattered as at the very start of spring. A darker line highlights the rim and frames the decoration.

In Japan, the plum tree, ume, is the first tree to blossom at the end of winter, sometimes still under snow, well before the cherry tree. Its flowering heralds the return of spring, and its blossom symbolises perseverance and renewal. It is one of the best-loved patterns in Japanese tableware.

At 25.5 cm in diameter and low in height, these are true dinner plates, suited to a main course or to serving a selection. The blue brings out the colours of vegetables, white rice, grilled fish or glazed meat.

They go with the bowls, salad bowls and small plates in the same plum blossom decoration, to build a complete set in shades of blue.

Highlights

• Ume pattern: branches of plum blossom, a symbol of renewal.
• Large size: 25.5 cm in diameter, for the main course.
• Deep blue: dense, nuanced glaze with a darker rim.
• Set of 2: two matching plates.
• Made in Japan: matching the whole plum blossom range.

Product information

• Type: Japanese dinner plates
• Contents: 2 plates
• Material: ceramic
• Origin: Japan (Toki-Tajimi area, Gifu Prefecture, home of Mino ware)
• Dimensions: Ø 25.5 cm, height 3 cm
• Colours: deep blue, white, yellow
• Pattern: branches of plum blossom (ume)
• Finish: glazed, glossy
• Care: hand washing recommended, microwave safe
• Style: traditional Japanese

How to use

On a light linen tablecloth or a wooden table, the blue of these plates really stands out. Serve grilled fish with white rice and a few green vegetables: the colours echo one another.

Frequently asked questions

What does the plum blossom symbolise in Japan?

The plum tree, ume, is the first tree to blossom at the end of winter. Its flower heralds spring and symbolises perseverance and renewal.

What size are the plates?

They measure 25.5 cm in diameter and 3 cm high, the size of a dinner plate.

Are these plates dishwasher and microwave safe?

Like all ceramics, they are best washed by hand: the dishwasher is not recommended. They can, however, go in the microwave without any problem.