Brand Stories: Hasami Porcelain
Uniquely Japanese, Hasami Porcelain was created by Takuhiro Shinomoto of Tortoise in Venice, CA. Their vision is to integrate modern tableware design with the organic quality produced by traditional Japanese manufacturing techniques. More specifically, they emphasize “clean lines, multi-function, material and texture,” concepts that are featured prominently in their brand and on their website.
The story of Hasami Porcelain begins in the Edo Period of Japanese history.
Hasami is a historic town known for its pottery, in Nagasaki Prefecture.
Its history of porcelain ware started around four centuries ago. Their method was super efficient, giving them the ability to mass-produce the products while maintaining their signature quality. The wares were traded throughout Japan and even Europe.
Diving deeper into this tradition, Hasami Porcelain highlights just how unique their process is. Since the start, the work was split up between the various craftsmen in the village, each with their own expertise and in charge of a distinct stage of work. They were craftsmen of the highest caliber, contributing equally in this artisanal assembly line.
This method has been passed down for generations and is a part of Hasami Porcelain today.
Their porcelain ware is a gorgeous “conversation” between traditional and contemporary Japanese aesthetics.
A big part of Hasami Porcelain’s identity is the texture of their products. They take great care in creating a “natural” feeling to their wares. They are able to create a product that looks modern with clean lines, but also feels earthy, comfortable, and “organic.”
As mentioned, Hasami Porcelain takes great pride in its modern Japanese sensibilities.
What is most extraordinary is that they make no sacrifices. Their designs are not only beautiful but extremely practical. For example, the shapes and sizes of their products are made so that they stack together in harmony, saving space in storage. (Fun fact: this concept was inspired by Jubako, traditional Japanese lacquered tier boxes.)
Their attention to detail is truly remarkable.