Client:
Self-Restoration
Year:
2018
Origin:
Mashiko, Japan
Base material:
Earthenware
Damage:
Multi-piece break
Finish:
Fired tin
This is a rimmed plate by Suzuki Minoru, a ceramist in Mashiko in Japan. The way its deep, granular texture seemed to expand like the universe captivated me at first sight, and I had to buy it. When I moved to Germany, I couldn’t bring all my tableware, but this plate had to come with me.
Not long after, it slipped from my still unfamiliar kitchen counter and broke. I couldn’t help but think how easy it would be to ask my former colleagues at D&DEPARTMENT for help—they would have guided me through the process of kintsugi step by step. I eagerly waited for a trip back to Japan, and as soon as I returned, I asked for their guidance.
That moment marked my first step into the world of kintsugi. Back in Germany, I carefully restored the plate, drawing on everything I had learned.
As a beginner, I felt it was too daunting to use gold powder for the repair. Besides, since this is a plate I use daily, I felt that the texture of burnt tin suited its character better.
