Flame Pot, Dodaira, Tsunan Town

Handcrafted Replica Jomon Flame Pot – Middle Jomon Period (c. 3000 BCE)

Details

The tradition of handcrafting Flame Pots dates back to the Middle Jomon period (3500–2500 BCE) in what is now Niigata Prefecture, central Honshu, Japan. These exquisitely decorated vessels are part of the enduring Jomon ceramic tradition, a cultural period spanning over 13,000 years.

Unlike the plain, utilitarian cookware we might expect, these ornate vessels were used for cooking—a fact revealed by the carbonised food residues found on original examples. These pots were central to bustling Jomon villages, where subterranean thatched dwellings were arranged in radial patterns around communal spaces. In these homes, hearth fires glowed warmly, providing heat and light as food was prepared in these remarkable, sculptural vessels.

The achievements of Jomon potters were extraordinary. Without modern ceramic technology, kilns, or even the potter's wheel, they created masterpieces of durability and artistry.

A Special Connection to the British Museum

This limited-edition replica was crafted as part of our work on the new Circle of Stones Exhibition at the Stonehenge Visitor Centre. As part of the project, we had the great honour of visiting The British Museum, where we were able to handle and study an original Jomon Flame Pot. This experience provided invaluable insights into the techniques and craftsmanship of the ancient potters.

A huge thank you to Susan Greaney and Simon Kaner for their support and for sharing their expertise throughout this project.

Limited Edition

Only one available!
We produce fewer than five of these pieces per year, making each one a truly rare collector’s item.

Period

Middle Jomon period, c. 3000 BCE
Origin: Dodaira, Tsunan, Niigata Prefecture, Japan

Materials

Smoke-fired terracotta

Dimensions

• Height: Approx. 420 mm
• Diameter: Approx. 400 mm

Production

This museum-quality replica has been entirely handmade in Northumberland by Potted History, inspired by original Jomon artefacts.

• Hand-built from natural clay, similar to that used by original Jomon potters
• Fired in a wood fire to replicate authentic surface colouration
• Replica tools (stone, wood, shell, bone, and antler) were used to reproduce tool marks found on original pieces

Firing Process

• The original Jomon Flame Pots were fired in open wood fires, in direct contact with the fuel, creating natural variations in surface colour.
• Because open firing at low temperatures results in fragile pots, this replica has been fired at a slightly higher temperature for added strength, while preserving its authentic appearance.

Health & Safety

• Museum-Quality Replica: Crafted using authentic Jomon-era tools and techniques.
• Not food safe: Due to its unglazed and porous surface, this vessel does not meet modern health and safety standards for cooking.
• Ancient cooking practices: Jomon cooks relied on high temperatures (over 70°C for at least 10 minutes) to kill bacteria, with 100°C or higher providing even greater protection.
• WARNING: If you attempt to cook in this vessel, you are VERY likely to break it—do you really want to be responsible for the destruction of this incredible piece?

Ordering Information

• 'Add to Basket' Items: Ready to ship immediately.
• 'Pre-order' Items: Handmade to order within 90 days (longer for international orders). If your order includes both 'Add to Basket' and 'Pre-order' items, they will be shipped together once all items are ready.

Shipping

• Standard shipping: Sent via second-class postal service.
• Faster delivery: If you require first-class shipping, please contact us for a custom quote.

Own a rare and exquisite piece of Jomon artistry – order today and bring ancient craftsmanship into your collection!