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Earth Carving Cup Pair
$39.00
No reviews
Pair of Ceramic Cups • Mino ware • 400 cc (13.5 oz) • Made in Japan
In stock, ready to ship
Cradle the Earth Carving Cup Pair, feeling the textured ridges that enhance your grip while sipping. Each cup's hand-glazed surface reveals nuances of soil and stone, allowing for a comforting connection with nature during your morning coffee or evening tea. The earthy tones blend seamlessly with both modern and traditional settings, adding an understated elegance to your table. Crafted in Japan, these cups exemplify quality through their tactile presence and unique design.
Why You'll Love It?
• Textured grip echoes nature’s elements.
• Authentic Mino Ware craftmanship
• Harmonizes beautifully in any setting.
• Artisan-crafted with Kinsho Kiln heritage.
• Earth-inspired hues enhance your ambiance.
Directly sourced from artisan workshops in Japan
No US customs fees or surprise import charges — we take care of everything
At first glance, the Earth Carving Cup Pair speaks to a deeper connection with nature. Inspired by the textures of soil, stone, and sky, each cup is hand-glazed to evoke balance and serenity. The earthy palette—one neutral, one cool—complements modern and traditional interiors alike, while the ridged surface provides an enhanced grip and sensory experience. Standing 4 inches tall and 3 inches in diameter, these cups are ideal for enjoying a comforting cup of tea or a spirited evening drink, offering a generous capacity while fitting perfectly in your hand.
Crafted in Japan at the Kinsho Kiln, these cups showcase decades of ceramic expertise and meticulous attention to detail—from the kiln-finished base to the refined lip, ensuring each sip is soft and deliberate. Weighing approximately 250 grams each, they offer a satisfying heft, enhancing your drinking experience and reflecting their superior craftsmanship.
Whether you're beginning your morning with tea, sharing a drink with a loved one, or unwinding with a nightcap, this set transforms ordinary moments into elegant rituals. For longevity, handwashing is recommended to preserve the integrity of the natural glaze. This pair arrives beautifully packaged in a sophisticated gift box, making it an ideal present for yourself or someone special who appreciates fine craftsmanship.
2 Cups: 13.5 fl oz each (3.54 × 5.51 in / 400 cc each)
Weight: 1.65 lbs total (750 g)
Care instructions
Hand wash recommended. Avoid microwave or dishwasher use to preserve the unique glaze and texture.
Artisan & Craft
Kinsho Kiln in Toki City, Gifu Prefecture, Japan under the supervision of Shigemichi Tabata
Note
Every piece crafted by our artisans tells a unique story.
Subtle marks, slight irregularities in shape, variations in glaze color and texture—these natural differences give each creation its own soul.
Over time, as you use your pieces, their character deepens, becoming part of your daily life and memories.
Toki City, Gifu Prefecture, stands as a beacon of Japan's rich ceramic heritage, particularly renowned for its Mino ware (Minoyaki). With a history spanning over 1,300 years, this region has cultivated a profound tradition of pottery.
During the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1568–1614), Toki became a sanctuary for potters fleeing conflicts in neighboring areas, leading to the establishment of kilns that produced distinctive styles like Oribe, Shino, and Setoguro ware, each celebrated for their unique glazes and forms.
Today, Toki City remains a vibrant hub for ceramic artistry, housing numerous kilns and studios that blend time-honored techniques with contemporary designs.
Made by Shigemichi Tabata in Toki City, Japan
Mr. Tabata philosophy of excellence is resumed in the sentence which resume his life. "I want to create with clay!"
The kiln, built by the previous generation for a son who chose to carry on the family tradition, has been burning steadily for over 40 years. While honoring time-honored techniques, Mr. Tabata crafts ceramics that speak to modern life.
His guiding philosophy is simplicity—a belief that tableware should quietly enhance the dining experience without drawing attention away from the food. Each piece he creates is minimal, unembellished, and deeply intentional. Discover the quiet beauty and singular craftsmanship of pottery that can only be found here.
Made by Shigemichi Tabata in Toki City, Japan
Mr. Tabata philosophy of excellence is resumed in the sentence which resume his life. "I want to create with clay!"
The kiln, built by the previous generation for a son who chose to carry on the family tradition, has been burning steadily for over 40 years. While honoring time-honored techniques, Mr. Tabata crafts ceramics that speak to modern life.
His guiding philosophy is simplicity—a belief that tableware should quietly enhance the dining experience without drawing attention away from the food. Each piece he creates is minimal, unembellished, and deeply intentional. Discover the quiet beauty and singular craftsmanship of pottery that can only be found here.
FAQs
All you need to know about Japanese Pottery.
What types of traditional pottery are made in Japan?
Japan is home to several renowned pottery styles, including Mino ware (Gifu), Bizen ware (Okayama), Arita and Imari ware (Saga), Shigaraki ware (Shiga), and Mashiko ware (Tochigi). Each region has its own distinct materials, glazes, and firing techniques that reflect local history and aesthetics. Toki City in Gifu Prefecture is particularly renowned as the heart of Mino ware (Minoyaki)—the most widely produced pottery style in Japan.
What materials are used in artisan Japanese pottery?
Most artisan pottery in Japan is made from locally sourced clay, often mixed and refined by hand. Natural minerals and ash are used in glazes, and many pieces are wood-fired or fired in traditional climbing kilns (noborigama), producing unique surface textures and natural variations.
Are artisan Japanese pottery pieces safe for food use?
Yes. Authentic artisan pottery is made with food-safe, lead-free glazes and is carefully fired at high temperatures to ensure durability and safety. However, it's important to follow care instructions, especially for unglazed or porous ceramics.
What makes Japanese pottery different from Western ceramics?
Japanese pottery often emphasizes wabi-sabi—the beauty of imperfection—resulting in organic shapes, subtle asymmetry, and natural glazes. Unlike Western ceramics, which may prioritize uniformity, Japanese pieces often celebrate the individuality of each item, reflecting the artist's hand and the firing process.
How should I care for artisan-made Japanese pottery?
Hand-wash pottery with mild soap and avoid extreme temperature changes (like placing hot items into cold water). Some unglazed pieces may absorb moisture, so allow them to fully dry before storing. Avoid microwaves or dishwashers unless the piece is specifically labeled as safe for such use.
Do I need to season Minoyaki cups before using them?
For most Minoyaki cups, especially if they are fully glazed, seasoning is not required. However, if the cup has an unglazed interior or base, or a slightly porous finish, a simple seasoning process—known as medome—can help prevent stains, odor absorption, and hairline cracks over time.
To season a Minoyaki cup: 1. Rinse the cup gently with water (no soap). 2. Fill a bowl or pot with warm water and add a small spoonful of cooked rice or flour. 3. Submerge the cup and let it soak for 30–60 minutes. 4. Rinse again and let it air-dry completely.
This step helps fill microscopic pores in the ceramic, sealing the surface naturally and extending the life of your handcrafted piece. Always follow any care instructions provided by the maker.
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