Small Japanese Square Plates, Tako Karakusa – Set of 5

Five small square plates covered in the tako karakusa pattern, in very dark blue on white.

The decoration of tight tendrils, in a blue so deep it looks almost black, covers the whole white surface. The edges are slightly raised and highlighted with a brown line, and the corners are softened.

This decoration is called tako karakusa. Karakusa refers to a pattern of curling plant tendrils, and tako means octopus: the small leaves along the tendrils recall its suckers. Dense and rhythmic, it is one of the most emblematic patterns of Japanese tableware.

At 13.5 × 15 cm, they suit sushi, pickles, small desserts, bites or sauce. Their raised edges hold sauces.

They match the large square plate and the tako karakusa salad bowl from the shop, for a complete blue and white set.

Highlights

• Tako karakusa pattern: dark blue tendrils, an emblematic Japanese pattern.
• Raised edges: brown rim, softened corners.
• Small size: 13.5 × 15 cm, for sushi and bites.
• Set of 5: for an aperitif with friends.
• Porcelain: for everyday use, made in Japan.

Product information

• Type: small Japanese square plates
• Contents: 5 plates
• Material: porcelain
• Origin: Japan (Toki-Tajimi area, Gifu Prefecture, home of Mino ware)
• Dimensions: 13.5 × 15 cm, height 2.5 cm
• Colours: very dark blue, white, brown
• Pattern: tako karakusa
• Finish: glazed
• Care: dishwasher and microwave safe
• Style: traditional Japanese

How to use

Line them up in the middle of the table for a Japanese aperitif: edamame, pickles, gyoza. They also work as individual dessert plates.

Frequently asked questions

What does tako karakusa mean?

Tako means octopus in Japanese and karakusa refers to a pattern of curling tendrils. The name comes from the small leaves in the decoration, which recall the suckers of an octopus.

How many plates are in the set?

Five small plates with the same decoration.

Are these plates dishwasher and microwave safe?

Yes. Being porcelain, they can go in the dishwasher and the microwave.