Rice bowl S-20 | Hakusan Porcelain

Hirachawan Rice Bowl S-20
Design: Masahiro Mori, 1992
Manufacturer: Hakusan Porcelain, Hasami
Material: Porcelain
Dimensions: Ø 15 cm, H 5.5 cm
Awards: Good Design Award 1993; Long Life Award 2004
Made in Japan

Hirachawan ('flat rice bowl') is a series of bowls designed by Masahiro Mori for Hakusan Tōki in 1992. 'Flat' because the bowls are flatter and wider than the previously common, traditional rice bowls, which were rather deep and narrow to keep the rice warm for as long as possible. In view of the modern way of life, where one no longer has to worry about food getting cold, Mori developed the Hirachawan. The flat bowls allow the dishes to be presented better visually and at the same time make the designs more visible. In addition, the flatter bowls are easier to stack. The Hirachawan are not only suitable for rice but also for appetizers, small dishes, soups, desserts and much more.
Since its launch, the Hirachawan series has remained a highly sought-after product line of the Hakusan Tōki manufactory. And with over 100 designs, there is something for every taste. The series was awarded the Good Design Award in 1993 and the Long Life Award in 2004.

Hakusan Porcelain, based in the pottery town of Hasami on the island of Kyūshū, was founded in 1779 and has been operating in its current form since 1951. In 1956, product designer Masahiro Mori was hired by the company to bring a fresh impetus to the product range. With his flair for design, form, functionality and reasonable pricing, he had a lasting impact on the company and emphasized that good design is also intended for everyday use.