What is San-kan-jin?
Kanjin is a design where a three-dimensional figure, clinging to the rim as if peering into a well, is attached to the side of a ceramic ware. If there are three such figures, it is called "Sankanjin" (Three Kanjin). Depending on the number of figures, there are also "Ikkajin" (One Kanjin) and "Nikajin" (Two Kanjin).
The character "Kan" (閑) can also be read as "hima" (leisure), evoking the image of a solitary person with time on their hands. Originating from Chinese sometsuke (blue and white porcelain) styles, it is a beloved auspicious motif.
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