A pair of yunomi by Jin Kiln, which received the honour of presenting work to Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress.

Flowers and Birds in the Kakiemon Manner
Birds and flowers — a mark of the Kakiemon style — are drawn in vivid colour. Delicate overglaze work stands out against the smooth, milky-white porcelain that serves as its canvas.

Drawn Entirely by Hand
Drawn entirely by hand by Yuji Obata, so no two carry exactly the same design — please enjoy them as a pair of yunomi that exists nowhere else.

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.
Height: 8cm Diameter: 7.8cm
As each piece is handmade, slight variations in size may occur.