1616 Arita Japan

Overview

1616 / arita japan is a Japanese ceramics brand launched in 2012, specializing in tableware that blends Arita porcelain traditions with contemporary design influences from Europe and elsewhere. Products are produced in Arita factories using local kaolin clay, emphasizing thinness, strength, and everyday usability while drawing on 400-year-old Aritayaki techniques. The brand has expanded to over 20 countries, mainly in Europe, following recognition at events like Milano Salone.

History

The brand was launched in 2012 by Momota Touen, a pottery company with roots in Arita kiln work, under the creative direction of designer Teruhiro Yanagihara. The name references 1616, when Korean potters introduced porcelain-making to Arita on Kyushu Island, Japan. Yanagihara developed the line to modernize traditional Aritayaki for daily use. It gained international attention at its Milano Salone debut in 2012 and now operates in more than 20 countries.

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Products are manufactured in Arita, Japan, by Momota Touen in the same factories as traditional Aritayaki, using local crushed stone kaolin clay and craftsmanship from Arita artisans. The process maintains the thinness and strength of original Arita ware while applying contemporary designs.

Notable Products

• Tea Cup - Enduring design by Cecilie Manz for everyday tea service.
• Hojicha Cup - Specialized cup by Cecilie Manz matching traditional Japanese hojicha.
• Colour Porcelain plates - Color-infused plates by Scholten & Baijings blending form and function.
• Standard series bowls - Versatile bowls by Teruhiro Yanagihara experimenting with clay and shape.

Reputation

The brand is recognized by design professionals for successfully merging Arita heritage with modern aesthetics, earning acclaim at events like Milano Salone. Enthusiasts value the durability, thinness, and versatility for daily use. Some note higher pricing compared to standard Arita ware due to designer collaborations.