About Us

Hi everyone, welcome to my ceramic shop!

If you’ve found yourself in my shop and are reading this, I’m guessing you’re also a fan of handmade ceramics and share my love for beautiful, artistic, yet functional dinnerware and drinkware. My journey into the world of Japanese handmade ceramics began when I was searching for dinnerware that met strict lead safety standards. To my disappointment, many of the options advertised as lead-free or safe lacked aesthetic appeal.

For me, meals are more than just sustenance, and a morning cup of coffee is more than a wake-up call. I believe that beautiful dinnerware and drinkware can transform these everyday rituals into memorable, joyful experiences. They remind us to slow down, savor the moment, and truly live in the present rather than rushing to the next task.

As humans, we experience the world through time and space—that’s why we love music and beautiful objects. Music decorates time, while beautiful objects decorate space. Delicately crafted items help us preserve memories and capture fleeting moments. When we hold them, they can transport us back to peaceful mornings with a perfect cup of coffee or delightful dinners shared with loved ones.

Driven by this philosophy, I sought dinnerware and coffee mugs that combined strict food safety standards with exquisite craftsmanship. This search led me to the world of Japanese handmade ceramics, renowned for their quality and adherence to rigorous lead regulations. Japan has preserved its traditional ceramic-making culture exceptionally well, even as the world modernized. Many of the kilns and shops I source from have been around for nearly a century, constantly refining their craft to meet modern needs.

Each piece of dinnerware I curate feels alive, infused with the soul of its maker. My vision is to share these artworks—safe, functional, and beautiful—with those who share my passion for meaningful living. I ensure every product meets high standards by thoroughly researching the manufacturing process through reputable sources, including official websites and direct communication with manufacturers. I also personally test each piece using home lead-testing kits from Lowe’s or Home Depot. Recognizing the limitations of home kits (which can produce false positives or negatives), I’ve gone further by asking my suppliers to test many of the items with certified lead and cadmium testing labs in Japan. Whenever available, I link these test certificates on the product pages.

In addition to quality and safety, I carefully select pieces with functionality and cultural diversity in mind. Whether it’s a curry dish, a steak dinner, sushi, or a Korean barbecue, I aim to offer dinnerware that enhances the experience and celebrates the beauty of different cuisines.

I’ll be sharing more ideas and inspirations for using these ceramics on my official Instagram account. Follow @theontologie to see how these stunning pieces can brighten your daily meals, coffee breaks, and tea time!

Welcome to the world of Japanese ceramics—it’s a pleasure to meet you! 😊

– Freya
Feb 20, 2024