Inspired by the intricate art of bookbinding, product designer Ryosuke Fukusada has created a series of flower vases that seamlessly blend contemporary design with heritage techniques. The collection is named WATOJI, which references Japanese bookbinding, and was manufactured in collaboration with Ceramic Japan, a company based in the city of Seto whose region has a 1,300-year-old history with traditional pottery making. Together, Fukusada and Ceramic Japan pay homage to Japan’s rich culture with a vase that is elegant and multifunctional.
With the innovative use of Kyokumihimo, a special type of thread crafted by Shoen Kumihimo based in Uji, Kyoto, the vase can be hung on the wall with ease. The thread also visually “binds” together the two sheets of porcelain that resemble paper. The subtle contrast between porcelain and thread creates a visually stunning display that adds a refined beauty to any space.
Because of the vase’s flat base, WATOJI can also stand upright on any surface top. There are two vase sizes and although the porcelain is only available in white, the Kyokumihimo thread comes in beige and mint colorways.
To learn more about the WATOJI collection, visit ceramic-japan.co.
