The work of a Contemporary Master Craftsman and recipient of the Medal with Yellow Ribbon.

The Warmth of a Hand-Thrown Form
A meoto pair of yunomi, striking for the warmth of a form thrown by hand on the potter’s wheel.

Tako-Karakusa
The cups are painted all over with tako-karakusa (octopus arabesque). An unbroken geometric pattern with a character all its own, tako-karakusa has long been loved as a traditional Japanese design. It is an auspicious pattern, said to bring many kinds of good fortune, such as unbroken happiness and joy.

A Lattice Within
Inside each cup a lattice pattern is painted, as a prayer for lasting prosperity — the true meaning of the design.

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 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.
Yunomi (large) Diameter: 7.5cm, Height: 9.5cm / Yunomi (small) Diameter: 7cm, Height: 8.5cm
As each piece is handmade, slight variations in size may occur.