Swirling a glass of the finest single malt while savoring the rising smoke of a cigar—such a blissful moment should be completed not by a mere utilitarian vessel, but by a "stage" that possesses its own unwavering narrative. This porcelain ashtray, with an overwhelming diameter of approximately 25 cm, was created by Hayashikuro Kiln (Rinkurogama), founded in 1968 as a maverick of Hasami ware. It is an exceptional piece perfectly suited for the moment where Eastern and Western luxuries intersect.
Hayashikuro Kiln was established by Ishimaru Togei Co., Ltd., infusing 400 years of Hasami ware tradition with the aesthetics of the "Ko-Imari (Old Imari) Style" that once captivated the royalty and aristocracy of the Edo period. The interplay between Somenishiki (underglaze blue and overglaze enamels) and lavish gold gilt on this piece vividly revives the opulent world of Kinrande, celebrated in the West as "Old Imari." Likening the deep indigo of the Sometsuke to a tranquil sea, the vibrant red paintings and golden brushstrokes create a dynamic design. This richly colored epic in porcelain was made possible only by the expansive 25 cm canvas.
This large ashtray, the pinnacle of Oriental stylistic beauty, resonates surprisingly deeply with the Western cultures of cigars and whiskey. When a premium cigar rests on the edge of this substantial vessel, its brown leaves overlapping with the golden arabesque patterns, an aura of timeless Oriental luxury emerges. While the production date is estimated to be during the 1970s and 80s—an era of peak economic vitality in Japan—the overwhelming scale sought by the successful individuals of that time remains perfectly functional today, elegantly holding the ash of large cigars and setting the tone for a relaxed atmosphere.
Gazing at this kaleidoscope-like painting while smoking a cigar with a glass of matured amber whiskey by your side is nothing less than a ritual. It dispels daily stress along with the flame and invites the spirit into a world of fertile beauty. This work, filled with the pride of Hayashikuro Kiln's pursuit of "high-quality ceramics," far exceeds the scope of a mere smoking accessory. It is a rare collector's piece worthy of centering a unique lifestyle where East and West, stillness and motion, harmonize perfectly.
Notable Career and History of the Producer: [1968] Founded by Ishimaru Togei Co., Ltd. in Hasami Town, Nagasaki Prefecture. Based on the 400-year traditional techniques of Hasami ware, the kiln established a unique style reviving the Edo-period Ko-Imari style for the modern era. Its opulent designs using Somenishiki and Kinrande (gold gilt) have earned high acclaim both domestically and internationally in the field of luxury gift porcelain, firmly establishing its position as a leader in high-end decorative Hasami porcelain.
Production Era: Circa late 1970s to 1980s (Showa to Heisei period)
Condition: Very good (no chips, no cracks)
Accessories: Original wooden box included Material: Porcelain (Somenishiki and Kinrande)
Dimensions: Diameter approx. 25.0 cm, Height approx. 5.0 cm (estimated)
Special Notes: There may be minor glaze spots from production or slight wear on the gold gilt, but no notable post-production damage is present. Note: Even if the products provided by our shop are new and unused, they were produced a long time ago and are listed as second-hand items. Please understand and confirm that the products may have damage due to aging before considering a purchase.
