This elegant Kiyomizu-yaki yunomi (teacup) is decorated in a kohiki mishima style, which combines the Korean techniques of kohiki (粉引 - slip glazing) and mishima (三島 - slip inlay). Here, the mishima technique is used for the stamped chrysanthemums and incised lines. In the kohiki style, the cup was dipped in white slip, then excess slip was wiped away from the stamped area, revealing the floral design. The overall effect is a combination of refined elegance and rustic beauty.

Like most kohiki wares, this cup is porous and will absorb water and tea and subtly change colour over time. Before its first use, we recommend soaking the entire piece in warm water for at least one hour. This allows water to fill the cracks and pores, slowing the rate at which tea stains the clay. Slowing the staining process allows the colour change to progress naturally and beautifully. With each subsequent use, we suggest rinsing the cup with hot water before serving tea in it.

Kohiki is a traditional slipware ceramic style that originated in the short-lived Buncheong Deombeongi ceramics of late 15th century Korea. In an attempt to create an affordable mimicry of Chinese white porcelain, iron-rich clay was dipped in white slip (liquified clay) and covered with a translucent ash glaze. Korean kohiki chawan were brought to Japan, where they were revered as masterpieces (名物) by tea masters. Recently, this rustic style has seen a resurgence in popularity owing to its timeless, natural elegance. Compared to the harsh white of porcelain, kohiki vessels have a soft, warm, and organic feel.

Made by Itō Noriaka (伊藤典哲), an independent potter at Sennyū-ji Temple in Kyōto. Born in 1956, Itō-san now specialises in Korean slipwares styles, such as kohiki, mishima, and hakeme.

Kiyomizu-yaki (清水焼) (also called Shimizu-yaki) is a type of Japanese pottery that traditionally comes from Gojōzaka district near Kiyomizu Temple, in Kyoto, Japan. A subset of Kyo-yaki which refers to all pottery made in the Kyoto area, Kiyomizu ware has been produced since the 16th century.

Dimensions:

8.5cm (3.3in) - width
5.75cm (2.3in) - height
150ml - capacity

Condition: New

This Japanese item ships from the United States.