A vintage pair of small Seto ware plates (掛け分け小皿), crafted in a style inspired by 伊万里 aesthetics. Each plate features a harmonious kakewake (split-glaze) design, where a soft milky white glaze meets a warm beige-brown tone, creating a natural and organic contrast that highlights the beauty of the clay and firing process.
At the center, a delicate painted swallow design in underglaze cobalt, slightly raised beneath the surface, adding subtle depth and a quiet sense of movement. This restrained use of blue recalls the classical Imari palette, where simple yet expressive motifs were favored for their elegance and balance.
The plates have a gentle concave form with a smooth, glossy finish, making them ideal for serving small sweets, condiments, or seasonal bites. Modest in size yet rich in character, they embody the refined simplicity of Japanese tableware—where everyday utility meets poetic craftsmanship. A lovely example of how Imari-influenced design language blends seamlessly with Seto ceramic tradition.
