We are excited to introduce you to the AJOTO Imari Collection. A collaboration with one of the oldest potteries in Imari, Japan. To launch the collection we have created two distinctive and functional pieces that celebrate the shared values of time-honoured Japanese craftsmanship and British design and technology. The pieces are created to celebrate the unintended use of everyday objects and reflect and play with cultural traditions and aesthetic detailing that is sometimes ubiquitous.
Our design journey began in our Manchester design studio right in the midst of the pandemic.We realised that we had to quickly adapt the way worked. Utilising 3D printers and 3D design allowed us to not only experiment with various shapes and materials but also work internationally without the need to travel or post items. The ability to develop exact prototypes not only allowed us to perfect our designs with accuracy but also played a crucial role in bridging the language gap and communicating our vision to the artisans in Japan during a testing time .
The legacy of ceramics in Okawachiyama, Imari, dates back over three centuries. Established by the shoguns, the kilns in this region were exclusively tasked with producing pottery for the shogunate's use. The choice of location, nestled amidst mountains on three sides, allowed for strict control over
the production and the artisans who created these exquisite pieces. Although the potters of today have the freedom to come and go as they please, their strong dedication to their craft is a testament to the enduring traditions of this remarkable village.
We love the modularity of objects and how with the best intentions we adapt products to suit a range of needs. With this collection, we wanted to take familiar elements and ideas from both Japan and Britain to create objects that have more than one use or challenge a design. For example, the Pen Pot is a ubiquitous product, however, it’s common for people to take a mug, cup or vase and through a simple action of placing pens and pencils into it transform its function. It’s the same for decorative elements such as the ridges of a textured surface, that can provide groves to rest items etc.
The Imari Pen Pot and Crown Rest Collection symbolises the successful fusion of modern technology and traditional craftsmanship. This unique project represents AJOTO's commitment to collaborating closely with independent craftspeople worldwide to share specialised knowledge and create exceptional products in the stationery world.
The Crown Rest is a masterpiece of form and function. Inspired by the iconic chrysanthemum flower, which holds a prominent place in Japanese design. Using the petal shapes we carved a series of groves that allow pens to be held in multiple orientations, ensuring not only a secure grip but also an elegant display of your writing tools.
Moulding the crown rest as a solid piece gives the piece a beautiful weight, that also allows it to also be used as a paperweight to keep your loose paper safe in the morning breeze.
The Pen Pot is created as a multifunctional vessel inspired by the ‘yunomi’ cups found throughout Japan and used in the Japanese tea ceremony. The piece can serve as a stylish pen holder, a coffee or tea cup, or even a little vase. The design pays homage to the Japanese philosophy of finding beauty and purpose in everyday objects, redefining functionality with an artistic touch.
In recognition of the exceptional craftsmanship and uniqueness of this collection, we are proud to announce that each design in the Imari Pen Pot and Crown Rest Collection is limited to only 50 pieces per design.
In recognition of the exceptional craftsmanship and uniqueness of this collection, we are proud to announce that each design in the Imari Pen Pot and Crown Rest Collection is limited to only 50 pieces per design.
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