The five drawings

- Ume & Tsuru: the plum blossom, heralding spring, and the swan, symbol of long life,
- Maromonami: the wave, the sea, the origin of life, and the wave that returns as a sign of eternal luck,
- Inaho: the rice cob, which has inspired respect since ancient times, as the Japanese believe it to be inhabited by the gods,
- Fuji: Mount Fuji, the sacred mountain endowed with spiritual powers. It is both the symbol of Japan and of good fortune,
- Yuki: snow, a message from heaven heralding good harvests.

Arita porcelain is mainly known in Europe as 'Imari', because this is the port from which, historically, this porcelain was exported to Europe by Dutch merchants. But it is in the small town of Arita, in the prefecture of Saga in northern Kyushu, that these porcelains have been made since the early 17th century. In 1616 to be precise, a turning point in the history of this product, as it marked the end of the Chinese monopoly on the use of kaolin for the production of fine porcelain.

Japan took up production, exporting until 1757.

During the Edo period, the government regulated the export of these products, and they became less available abroad, focusing distribution more on Japanese territory.

During the 19th century, exports picked up again thanks to Arita porcelain, which was exhibited at international fairs and exhibitions, once again contributing to its worldwide reputation.

In Japan, a large number of houses (Kamamoto) and artists are involved in the production of the famous Arita porcelain. Some of these artists have even been honoured with the prestigious title of "Living Human Treasure" in recognition of their expertise and exceptional contribution to this art.