Green Kutani ware

Japanese porcelain

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Last updated

June 29, 2026

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Green Kutani ware is a type of Japanese porcelain originating from the Kaga province (now Ishikawa prefecture). It is characterized by its distinctive overglaze enamels, particularly a prominent use of green.1

The "Old Kutani" style, established around 1656, featured a coarse, gray clay body. "Green Kutani" specifically is known for being largely covered in a green or blue-green glaze, with additional colors like yellow and red applied, or designs executed in black. These bold designs drew inspiration from Chinese ceramics and paintings.1

The original Kutani kiln was abandoned around 1700, but production revived in the 19th century, leading to modern Kutani ware becoming a significant export. While "Kutani" is now a broad term, true Green Kutani is recognized for its rich, pictorial ornamentation and lively lines.12

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Kutani ware
…in dark, restrained colours, initially greens, yellows, and some reds, and later purples and dark blues. Some items had cobalt blue decoration under a white glaze. The most noted Old Kutani pieces are “Green Kutani,” in which most of the surface is covered in a green or blue-green glaze to…
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…in dark, restrained colours, initially greens, yellows, and some reds, and later purples and dark blues. Some items had cobalt blue decoration under a white glaze. The most noted Old Kutani pieces are “Green Kutani,” in which most of the surface is covered in a green or blue-green glaze to…
Read More