Iga Ware Cup – Small
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Iga Ware Cup – Small
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Wabi-sabi in the palm of your hand
Embodying over 1,300 years of ceramic tradition, the Iga Ware Cup by Asemi Co celebrates Japan's enduring pottery heritage with a modern sensibility. Hand-thrown by skilled artisans and finished with 100% naturally-derived glazes, this compact vessel carries the legacy of ancient kilns directly into your hands.
Its volcanic clay body is full of character—rough, pitted, and expressive—offering a uniquely tactile experience that resonates with the philosophy of wabi-sabi, the appreciation of imperfection and transience. Despite its raw aesthetic, each piece is precisely balanced, making it suitable for everyday use, whether serving warm sake, espresso, or herbal teas.
Its modest volume (3.4 oz / 100 ml) and sturdy cylindrical form also make it an excellent piece for collectors and minimalists alike. Durable, functional, and deeply authentic, the Iga Ware Cup is more than drinkware—it’s a quiet ceremony of craftsmanship.
Each cup is packed in a custom Asemi Co. box, designed for both protection and presentation.
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Note
Made by Azemi
Asemi Co., Ltd. is a visionary Japanese brand that bridges the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern design.
By blending time-honored artisanal techniques with clean, contemporary aesthetics, Asemi creates objects that preserve heritage while appealing to a global audience. The brand serves as a conduit for transmitting the skills and sensibilities of local craftsmen to future generations.
Asemi's thoughtful designs have earned international recognition, including the prestigious Young Designer Award at IFFT/Interior Lifestyle Living 2018. With a deep respect for regional craft and a forward-looking approach, Asemi Co. continues to redefine how tradition meets innovation.
FAQs
All you need to know about the Japanese Pottery Styles.
What are the major traditional styles of Japanese pottery?
Japan is home to a rich diversity of regional pottery styles, each with distinct techniques and aesthetics. Notable types include:
Bizen ware (備前焼): Unglazed stoneware fired for days, known for its earthy, fire-marked surface.
- Shigaraki ware (信楽焼): Rustic, coarse clay pieces with ash glaze and warm tones.
- Oribe ware (織部焼): Recognized by green copper glaze and bold asymmetrical designs.
- Shino ware (志野焼): Thick white glazes with soft textures and iron brushwork.
- Kutani ware (九谷焼): Vivid overglaze porcelain with rich, multicolored painting.
- Hasami ware (波佐見焼): Refined porcelain with clean forms and modern simplicity.
- Arita ware (有田焼): Delicate blue-and-white porcelain, often highly decorative.
How are these traditional styles used in modern homes?
While rooted in history, Japanese pottery is widely used today for both everyday and decorative purposes.
- Bizen and Shigaraki ware are often used for flower vases, tea utensils, or minimalist home décor.
- Hasami and Arita ware are favored for daily tableware due to their durability and elegant simplicity.
- Oribe and Shino ware are appreciated for tea ceremony use, but are also integrated into eclectic dining sets.
- Kutani ware is typically used for formal dining and artistic display due to its vivid ornamentation.
Can traditional Japanese pottery go in the microwave or dishwasher?
It depends on the style and glaze.
- Porcelain types like Hasami and Arita are usually microwave and dishwasher safe.
- Stoneware types such as Bizen or Shigaraki, which are porous and unglazed, should be hand-washed and kept out of microwaves.
Always check product-specific care instructions, as handmade items may vary.
Are Japanese pottery pieces suitable for Western dining settings?
Absolutely. Japanese ceramics pair beautifully with Western cuisine and interiors. Their natural textures, varied glazes, and elegant imperfections add warmth and individuality to any table. For example:
- A Shino ware bowl elevates pasta with rustic charm.
- A Kutani porcelain plate makes desserts visually stunning.
- A Bizen sake cup can be repurposed as an espresso shot glass or dipping bowl.
Why is handmade Japanese pottery often more expensive?
Handmade Japanese pottery reflects generations of skill, regional materials, and artisanal firing methods. The unpredictability of wood-fired kilns, hand-glazing, and limited production runs all contribute to each piece’s uniqueness—and value. In contrast to mass-produced ceramics, you're purchasing a piece of living cultural heritage. Many customers find that the emotional resonance and durability of these pieces more than justify the price.