A mug in overglaze cherry blossom by Yuji Obata of Jin Kiln, a distinguished kiln that received the honour of presenting work to His Majesty the Emperor Emeritus.

Light, and Generous
An easy form to use, light as porcelain allows, and generous in capacity. The delicate cherry blossom design comes through clearly.

About Arita Ware
Arita ware is the origin of Japanese porcelain. In 1616, under the rule of the Nabeshima clan of the Saga domain, 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.

Sakura
The cherry blossom is Japan’s flower. For centuries, to say hana — flower — was to mean sakura. Its language of flowers is “beauty of the heart,” and its brief season is why it stands for a moment held precious.

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
Mug × 1, booklet, paulownia box.
Top diameter: 9cm, Height: 9cm, / Base diameter: 6.5cm, Weight: 210g / Capacity: 300ml
As each piece is handmade, slight variations in size may occur.