Kutani ware is one of the best kown of Japanese ceramics, and justifiablyso: bodly decorated in rich overglaze enamels, it is the most daring and original of japanese porcelains. The present book examines both old kutani ware, which flourished in the latter half of seventeenth century, and the newerstyle of kutani ware, produced continuously from the early nineteenth century to the present day. Drawing from both eighteenth century documents and recent excavation reports, the author provides evidence toward establishing the dats of old kutani kilns and the reasons for their rise and decline. Recently unearthed shards are hown to display featues not usually associated with old kutani, the author examines the never kutani ware, focusing on the production of the various potters and kilns, bringing his account of kutani ware uo to the twentieth century. A omprehensive yet concise treatment of all aspects of the subject, the text is richly illustrated with 152 black and white and 24 color plates, each accompanied by a caption containing detailed information. The glossary is an invaluable aid for novice and expert alike.