26218 Living National Treasure Jiro Kinjo Tsuboya Ware Vase with Shrimp and Fish Design KINJO Jiro

Height 40.2cm
Diameter 22.4cm

A potter born in Naha City, he is a holder of the national intangible cultural property "Ryukyu Pottery" skill (the first Living National Treasure from Okinawa Prefecture).

The meaning of the shrimp motif
Shrimp, with its bent back and long whiskers, have long been a symbol of longevity. In Japan, it is sometimes written as "shrimp" using the character "old" and is also called "Old Man of the Sea," a respectful title for an elderly person.

Shrimp is used in New Year's dishes and other celebratory occasions because it represents the wish for eternal youth and longevity. The red color that it turns when boiled is also considered auspicious.

The meaning of fish motifs
In China, fish have been a symbol of leisure and abundance, as the characters for "fish" and "yu" are homonyms. They are also known as a lucky motif for the prosperity of descendants. Fish motifs are also one of the natural motifs often used in Okinawa's Tsuboya ware.

Wishes conveyed through the shrimp and fish motif
The shrimp and fish motifs on Kinjo Jiro's shrimp and fish vase are combined to convey wishes for many happinesses, such as longevity, abundance, and prosperity of descendants.