A yunomi with a glaze expressing the shining star, drawn on jet-black tenmoku.

Aoki-Myojo — the Shining Star
On the jet-black tenmoku, a glaze expressing the shining star. A quiet profundity hangs about the tenmoku, and the shining star stands for the good fortune of lighting things up. Recommended as a gift for the opening of a business or a new home — for someone beginning something new.

Exceptional Functionality
The material is the finest high-grade natural pottery stone from Amakusa in Kyushu. Fired at the extreme temperature of 1,300°C, this Arita porcelain feels like silk to the touch yet is hard and non-absorbent, so stains do not settle and care is simple. There is none of the earthy scent of stoneware. Microwave and dishwasher safe, with excellent heat and cold retention, for use across generations and occasions.

About Arita Ware
Arita ware is the origin of Japanese porcelain. In 1616, under the rule of the Saga domain lord Naoshige Nabeshima, pottery stone was found in what is now Saga Prefecture and production began. Because the wares were made in Arita and shipped from the port of Imari, they are also known as Imari ware. Carried to Europe by the Dutch East India Company — the only trading partner permitted during Japan’s period of national seclusion — the porcelain was called “white gold” and furnished the courts of royalty and nobility.

What Is a Yunomi?
A yunomi is the everyday Japanese teacup — a small cup without a handle, held in both hands. It is used for green tea.

What Is Tenmoku?
Tenmoku is a family of dark iron glazes that came to Japan from China and has been prized in the tea world for centuries. Yuteki tenmoku — oil-spot tenmoku — takes its name from the crystals that surface during firing and scatter across the black glaze like drops of oil on water. Several such bowls are designated National Treasures of Japan.

Why a Paulownia Box
Paulownia wood is light, resists moisture and insects, and moves with changes in humidity — which is why it has been used in Japan for centuries to store what is valuable. A piece delivered in a paulownia box arrives ready to give, and the box itself is part of the gift.

Contents and Dimensions
Yunomi × 1, booklet, paulownia box.
Height: 7.7cm Mouth diameter: 6.6cm / Weight: 145g Capacity: 200ml
As each piece is handmade, slight variations in size may occur.