A beautiful set of 10 lacquered bowls decorated with colorful Ashi reed leaves in green, red, silver and cream white with gold highlights. The bowls are 11.2 cm (4-1/4 inches) diameter, 7.2 cm (3 inches) tall and in excellent condition, dating from the first half of the 20th century. They come in a two compartment Kiri-wood storage box titled Suimono-wan.
The basic setting in Japanese food is Ichiju-Sansai or one soup, three dishes. So instead of mixing everything on one plate, each part of the meal is given its own dish. Much Japanese food is still served fresh, and so the four seasons are an indispensable factor for the table. Kaiseki is a traditional Japanese multi-course dining experience that emphasizes seasonality, aesthetics, and harmony. The presentation of Kaiseki dishes is as much an art form as the preparation itself, guided by key principles. Great care is taken in selecting plates, bowls, and utensils that enhance the presentation and tie into the season. Materials like lacquerware, ceramics, and bamboo may be used, often featuring seasonal designs. Even the smallest details, such as the angle of a garnish or the placement of a sauce, are considered. Kaiseki emphasizes diversity in textures, flavors, and cooking methods (e.g., raw, grilled, steamed, fried, and simmered dishes). Balance in color, texture, and shape is critical. Each element of the dish complements the others, creating a sense of unity. This harmony extends to the choice of dishware, which should suit the food and the season. By combining these principles, Kaiseki creates a dining experience that is both a feast for the palate and the eyes, reflecting Japanese philosophy and aesthetics. According to Arigatojapan, Suimono, literally meaning 'dish to sip,' is a refreshing type of clear soup that is meant to cleanse the palate in between dishes. Often very light and slightly umami in taste, it is one of the oldest and most traditional foods in Japanese cuisine.
