set of two sumo decorated plates. a classic blue and white style pattern, with slight detailed edge. illustrations depict famous sumo wrestlers, this set is likely quite modern based on the names listed.
sumo wrestlers are depicted around a dohyō — the circular ring made with rice straw bales for the sumo bout. the first mention of sumo dates back to 712, in a Kojiki manuscript which a wrestling match between two kami, Takemikazuchi and Takeminakata, to take possession of the Japanese island Izumo.
