Japanese Bowl, Deep Blue with Plum Blossom

A deep, almost navy blue scattered with small white flowers: a bowl that brings light to the table.

The intense, softly nuanced blue glaze covers the whole bowl, inside and out. Depending on the light, it looks almost black or brightens into livelier reflections. Fine dark branches run across it, dotted with small five-petalled white flowers placed like light touches. The contrast is simple and luminous.

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.

Its tall, rounded shape sits well in the hand and keeps food warm. Medium-sized, at 17.1 cm in diameter and 9 cm high, it suits rice, breakfast cereal, soup, a small stew or a light donburi.

Its simplicity makes it easy to pair with plain tableware, or with other blue and white pieces for a more graphic table. It also makes a lovely gift for anyone who likes understated Japanese patterns.

Highlights

• Ume pattern: branches of plum blossom, a symbol of renewal in Japan.
• Deep blue: intense glaze with nuances that change with the light.
• Versatile size: rice, soup, cereal or small stews.
• Rounded shape: pleasant in the hand, it keeps food warm.
• Made in Japan: sold individually.

Product information

• Type: Japanese bowl
• Material: ceramic
• Origin: Japan (Toki-Tajimi area, Gifu Prefecture, home of Mino ware)
• Dimensions: Ø 17.1 cm, height 9 cm
• Colours: deep blue, white
• Pattern: branches of plum blossom (ume)
• Finish: glazed, glossy
• Care: hand washing recommended, microwave safe
• Style: traditional Japanese

How to use

Combine several bowls with the same decoration for a harmonious set, or mix it with white pieces to bring out the blue. It goes well with the shop’s blue plum blossom plates and salad bowls.

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 dishes is this bowl for?

Rice, soup, cereal, small stews or a light donburi: its medium size makes it very versatile.

Is this bowl dishwasher and microwave safe?

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