Kakiemon Porcelain Captivating 17th and 18th Century Europe

This article forms part of the Decorative and Applied Arts Encyclopedia, a master reference hub providing a structured overview of design history, materials, movements, and practitioners.

The Origins of Kakiemon: A Tale of Artistic Mastery

Kakiemon, originally a style of Japanese porcelain, became a hallmark of exceptional craftsmanship and aesthetic sophistication in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Named after Sakaida Kakiemon, the first in a line of renowned potters, this style captivated the elite circles of Europe. The Kakiemon family, believed to have pioneered the techniques of overglaze enamelling in Arita, crafted pieces distinguished by their delicate and sparsely applied decorations on fine white porcelain bodies.

The Enchantment of Kakiemon Motifs

The quintessential Kakiemon decoration features vibrant motifs of birds, flowers—such as chrysanthemums and prunus blossoms—and fantastical animals, including dragons. These designs are not merely ornamental but are imbued with cultural significance and artistic intention. Each piece tells a story framed by intricate borders of floral or diaper patterns. The colour palette is a subtle dance of iron-red, bluish-green, light blue, and yellow hues, all set against a pristine white ground that enhances their visual impact.

Dish classic example of the Kakiemon Style 1690 - 1720 (made)

Bowl 1660 - 1690 decorated in the Kakiemon Style V&A

Kakiemon’s Influence on European Porcelain

The allure of Kakiemon did not stay confined to Japan. By the 18th century, European manufacturers, seduced by the refined elegance of these wares, began producing their variations of Kakiemon-style porcelain. Major factories like Meissen, Chantilly, and Worcester sought to emulate Kakiemon’s original charm. Patterns such as the “Bursting Pomegranate” and the “Flying Fox and Squirrel” are notable examples of this cross-cultural adaptation, each adding a unique twist to the classic Kakiemon motifs.

Case Studies of Kakiemon Style in European Collections

One fascinating case is a bowl that entered the collection of Augustus the Strong, King of Poland and Elector of Saxony and was later replicated at his Meissen factory around 1729-31. This bowl exemplifies the Kakiemon style’s influence with its sparse yet vivid depiction of pomegranates and peonies. Another significant piece is the nigoshide dish, found in Queen Mary II’s 1693/4 inventory, described as a ‘small fruit dish with open work round the top.’ This piece highlights the exceptional quality and exclusivity reserved for the finest Kakiemon porcelain (see above).

Kakiemon Today: A Legacy Continued

The enduring legacy of Kakiemon is a testament to its timeless beauty and artistic excellence. Collectors and connoisseurs continue to cherish these pieces for their historical value and their ability to complement contemporary decor. Kakiemon-style porcelain remains a symbol of luxury and exquisite taste.