Masterful Detailing in the Palm of Your Hand
Working under the name “Kunyo,” artist Tamie Ono creates exquisite miniature ceramics known for their vivid colors and intricate, hand-painted designs.
Her signature “Hanasatsuma” series is a contemporary interpretation of traditional Japanese techniques, blending classical motifs with a modern sensibility.
Each piece is meticulously hand-painted, featuring delicate images of flowers, animals, and fine gold detailing. Her luxurious yet soft aesthetic reflects Kunyo’s unique world—where refinement meets imagination.
Kyo Satsuma: A Lost Treasure of the Meiji Era
Kyo Satsuma refers to a type of decorative ceramic that flourished in Kyoto in the late Meiji period (early 20th century). It was highly prized for export, recognized for its opulent gold embellishments and fine crackled white glaze.
Sadly, the techniques behind these stunning works largely disappeared by the early Showa era due to war and social upheaval.
<Meiji-era Satsuma Ware – Collection of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage>
A Personal Journey Into the World of Fine Detailing
Fascinated by the lost beauty of Kyo Satsuma, Kunyo took it upon herself to revive the technique. Her “Hanasatsuma” series carries the elegance of the past while incorporating her own expressive twists, balancing Japan’s timeless beauty with a fresh, contemporary approach.
Always seeking new designs, she devotes herself fully to each creation—cherishing both the act of making and her personal growth as an artist.
Art That Connects the Past and Future
Kunyo says she finds meaning in her work when someone is moved by it. For her, the goal is not only to preserve tradition, but to evolve it—making art that resonates across generations.
Her creations are more than pottery. They are living works of art that connect history and modernity, Japan and the world, beauty and craftsmanship.
KOTOPOTTER Owner
Masatoshi Yokoyama
With over a decade of experience in traditional Japanese crafts such as Kyo ware and Kiyomizu ware, I collaborate with Kyoto artisans to share their legacy with the world.
In 2024, I founded KOTOPOTTER—an online shop dedicated to showcasing handmade, traditional Japanese ceramics that blend art, history, and everyday beauty.