Why We Love Them

This authentic Kyoto ware teacup set features two handcrafted earthenware cups in a custom-made paulownia wooden box, stamped with the the Imperial Seal of Japan, making it a truly unique gift for tea lovers.

Ninshu is one of the most esteemed kilns in Kyoto. Established in 1646 at the imperial Ninna-ji temple, Ninshu was granted the usage of the Japanese Emperor’s mark, the chrysanthemum crest.

The kiln’s master artisans produce one-of-a-kind artistic vessels, one by one, on a potter's wheel. The beauty of Ninshu pottery lies in the precise modeling, in its bold lines, and in the richly colored glaze.

Molded with Ninshu’s unique signature style, these versatile cups, uniting the delicate atmosphere of clouds with the depth of black glaze, can be enjoyed as beer, sake, or coffee cups, or even as small bowls for snacks and desserts.

Why Choose Teacups from Kyoto

Kiyomizu-yaki (清水焼) and Kyo-yaki (京焼) ceramics have enjoyed over four centuries of history. The names refer to pottery produced around Higashiyama in Kyoto, or within the wider city area. Kyoto ware is today a highly valued and government-designated traditional Japanese craft. Since Kyoto was long the seat of Japan’s Imperial Court, Kyoto ware is renowned for its stately elegance and ornate decoration.

Kyoto ware is nearly all handmade in small quantities. Ceramic pigments in the Kyoto region often contain large amounts of glass, which allows the artists to create wares that are extremely fine and delicate. These are highly decorative works of art that showcase classic luxury rarely found anywhere else in Japan.

The origins of the Ninshu kiln can be traced back to Ninna-ji temple, established in 888 as the residence of Emperor Uda. The Omuro (literally, the “Emperor’s living room”) kiln was founded in 1646. Due to the temple's history as a purveyor to the Emperor, Ninsei, the kiln’s founder, was granted the use of the imperial family's chrysanthemum crest. He also added his own signature to the pottery items. Authentic Ninshu ceramics are stamped with Ninshu’s signature, as a testimonial to the history of the Omuro kiln.

Caring For Your Kyoto Ware Teacups

These cups can be washed in the dishwasher, and used in a microwave (although not a traditional oven).

Details

• Teacup set, comprising two ceramic teacups
• Handmade in Japan
• Free gift-wrapping in Japanese furoshiki cloth
• Includes custom-made wooden box, signed by the artist
• Kyo-ware/Kiyomizu-ware
• As each handmade product is unique, there will be differences in size, color, and pattern from the photographs above.
• Size: Ø 4” (10cm), height 3” (7cm), capacity 7fl.oz (200ml)
• Product code: 94102WH