Signs of Celebration Square Sauce Plate

This 9 cm square plate comes in five variations, each showing a motif that brings good wishes to Japanese celebrations. The treasure boat, or takarabune, is the ship of riches said to sail in at New Year, and the shishimai lion dance is performed at festivals to drive away misfortune. The other designs carry the same hope for luck, from an arrow hitting its target to a charming oni and a “full house” envelope, given when a business, performance, or event attracts a large crowd or achieves exceptional success. Vermilion dots mark the corners, and an earthy brown rim frames each design. Pick a motif to suit the occasion, such as the lion dance for New Year or the arrow for someone starting a new job. The plate suits soy sauce, pickles, or a sweet served with tea.