These bowls are by Tōsai-gama, and are from their Kotobe series of classically patterned Japanese ceramics.  With a slightly larger foot than is common, the bowls can fit into the palm of a hand, and be held when eating rice.  Fantastic decorative items too, they are hand painted and fired.

Tōsai-gama is the kiln of the Nagato family, based in the Tobe-ware ceramic region of Ehime. Tobe-ware is one of Japan’s traditions in white ceramics, historically known for the ‘sometsuke’ style of blue pigment designs on pale surfaces. Kotobe meaning old-Tobe is a series that references some of the classic patterns that may have been found in the 18-19th century iterations of these Ehime white ceramics. However, as with much of Tōsai-gama’s work, these designs are placed in a new context of form and material. Exploring the contemporary possibilities of their ceramic genre, the kiln makes pleasingly stylish pieces for the home.

As the pieces are hand painted and handmade there may be some differences between them.

Approximate size: Diameter: 11cm, Height: 6cm.