Saiun is a technique that depicts the sky as it flushes red. It is Shinemon’s own technique, developed further from shinsha (cinnabar glaze), the technique known for its ruby colouring.

An Uncompromising Technique
These techniques have a very poor yield: each time the kiln is fired, most of the pieces are lost. This pair is made with that uncompromising technique.

One of a Kind
Because the mottling and crystals of every yunomi emerge differently in the firing, each is a one-of-a-kind work, the only one in the world.

A Popular Meoto Pair
It comes with a fine paulownia box bearing the maker’s inscription — a popular meoto pair of yunomi at JTOPIA that has long been well received as a gift.

Exceptional Functionality
The material is the finest 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. It keeps drinks hot or cold well.

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 a Meoto Pair?
A meoto pair is a set of two vessels intended to be used together by two people, most often a couple. In Japan it is a long-standing form of gift for a wedding, an anniversary, or a new home — the pair itself carries the wish.

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 × 2, booklet, paulownia box.
Large: Height: 9cm Diameter: 8cm / Small: Height: 7cm Diameter: 7.5cm
As each piece is handmade, slight variations in size may occur.