Imari (Arita) Porcelain

Arita Porcelain is the name for Japanese porcelain wares made in the town of Arita (Southern part of Japan). Arita's kilns were set up in the 17th century, when porcelain stones was discovered in the Arita region by Sanpei Lee who is the immigrant Korean potter.

Arita porcelain was exported to European countries and became known as “IMARI” in the 17th century. The pieces were enjoyed throughout much of European countries. Arita porcelain had a great influence on the beginning of Meissen porcelain in Germany. Arita porcelain pieces of that era are stored in museums such as the Metropolitan Museum, the British Museum, and the Louvre Museum. Now Arita porcelain celebrates its 400 year anniversary.