This elegant Arita-yaki 親子鉢 (oyako-bachi) bowl set, titled 「万葉絵変り」, is a refined example of decorative porcelain that blends practicality with poetic seasonal beauty. The term oyako-bachi, meaning “parent-and-child bowls,” refers to the graduated sizes designed to nest neatly together, making the set both space-efficient and versatile for everyday use or special occasions.
Each bowl is formed in a softly scalloped shape, its gentle curves enhanced by a warm pink-to-white gradient glaze that evokes the delicate tones of early spring blossoms. The rims are subtly accented with fine gold edging, lending a quiet sense of elegance without overwhelming the design. Across the surfaces, a variety of hand-painted floral motifs appear in rich yet harmonious colors—maple leaves, cherry blossoms, hydrangea, plum, and wisteria—each rendered in a different composition. This e-gawari (絵変り) approach ensures that every bowl has its own distinct character while remaining part of a unified aesthetic.
The title “Manyō” (万葉) alludes to the Manyōshū, Japan’s oldest anthology of poetry, celebrated for its sensitivity to nature and the changing seasons. In this spirit, the bowl set invites contemplation of time, seasonality, and everyday beauty, turning even simple meals into a quietly ceremonial moment.
Crafted in the tradition of Arita-yaki, known for its fine porcelain body and clear, luminous glazes, this set balances durability with refinement. Whether used for serving rice, side dishes, desserts, or shared family meals, it embodies a graceful harmony of form, function, and cultural storytelling.
Size: 12 x 12 x 5cm (Big Bowl)
8 x 8 x 3.5cm (Small Bowl)
14 x 14 x 28cm (Box)
