Small plate -Emperor Penguin by Takunobu Sawada

Realistic, yet irresistibly charming—
Take a quiet moment with your favorite cup.

In the rural countryside of Nantan, Kyoto, ceramic artist Takanobu Sawada crafts pottery inspired by the animals around him—realistic in form, but gentle in spirit.

Surrounded by rich nature, his works reflect both technical precision and heartfelt warmth.

Each item is skillfully shaped on the wheel and trimmed with usability in mind, resulting in a form that fits naturally in the hand.

The soft, milky white *kohiki* base gives the piece a tender, earthy texture unique to handmade Japanese pottery.

Warmth You Can Feel in Every Line

Rather than being painted, the animal designs are carved out by hand—scraped from the *kohiki* surface to create expressive, lively lines.

Each line is filled with movement, giving the piece a unique charm and sense of character.

Raised in a family of Kyo-ware and Kiyomizu-ware artisans, Sawada has been surrounded by ceramics since childhood—and now, with over 20 years of experience, he brings a mature hand and a youthful heart to every piece.

Blending deep technical skill with a fresh, creative eye, his work is filled with the originality and elegance you’d expect from a Kyoto-based artist.

Let his creations bring a little joy and warmth to your daily life.

Owner's Comment

This versatile plate is great for cakes, pastries, side dishes, or salads—an easy-to-use size that works for everyday meals.

The expressive animal carvings add a touch of fun, making each plate feel like a little work of art.

We hope you’ll find one that brings a smile to your table.