From factory seconds to Kintsugi treasures: A journey of ceramics
- Eva Lenz-Collier
- Apr 3
- 2 min read
As I mentioned in my first article on factory seconds, factory seconds are products with defects or broken products that are created in a variety of ways. Some of these broken goods are already broken in the production facilities, but another part is created during transportation to the retailer. Online stores such as Japanwelt or stores such as Tee Kontor Kiel source their goods directly from Japan in order to offer their customers an exquisite range of handmade ceramics and other traditional products.
Despite careful packaging, some items may not survive the long transportation route unscathed. The dealers are insured against such losses, but it is still a pity for every single piece that is broken.
I have a special partnership with the Japanwelt team that began in 2020: I got to know the operators at a Japan market in Berlin, where I took part as an exhibitor. Since then, we have developed an ongoing collaboration that has brought me special pieces for my collections and workshops time and time again.
Japanwelt was founded in 2004 by Gunar Fenner and has since developed into one of the best-known online stores for Japanese living culture in German-speaking countries. Many of the products on offer come from small manufacturers in Japan and are traditionally handmade there. In addition to these, Japanwelt also works with established Japanese suppliers who can look back on a long history of craftsmanship.
In addition to selling products, Japanwelt is also involved in the Japanese culture community. The company is regularly represented at events such as the Main Matsuri or the Connichi, where an exchange with interested parties takes place. In addition, the Japanwelt blog offers various articles on Japan, including travel reports, cultural backgrounds and topics from history, religion and philosophy.
This year I have asked more dealers for broken treasures and am eagerly awaiting the shards that reach me to be transformed into Kintsugi marvels. Every piece that finds its way into my workshop tells a story. And with Kintsugi, it not only gets a second chance, but unfolds into a unique piece.
Kintsugi pieces from the Takara collection, shards from Japanwelt:
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