FREE SHIPPING ON ORDERS OVER $200

Earth Meets Flame: Oribe Takebori Cup Pair

Product Description

Celebrate the expressive beauty of Oribe pottery with the Oribe Takebori Cup Pair—two handcrafted porcelain cups glazed in lush, natural greens and carved with subtle vertical grooves. Each piece is shaped and fired under the expert guidance of Kazufumi Wada at the historic Keizan Kiln, where tradition and artistic experimentation meet.

Named after the celebrated warlord-turned-tea-master Furuta Oribe, Oribe ware is known for its bold glaze, asymmetrical form, and deeply textural finish. The "takebori" or "bamboo carving" style evokes a rustic aesthetic, making each sip feel grounded in nature and history.

Ideal for tea, water, or everyday beverages, these cups are both practical and artistic. The rich glaze variations—achieved through intentional firing differences—make each cup unique, turning every set into a collectible expression of Japanese ceramic artistry.

Presented in a rigid gift box, the pair makes a thoughtful gift for design lovers, tea enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates handcrafted beauty.

Product Information
  • Contents: Set of 2 cups in a rigid gift box
  • Material: Porcelain
  • Capacity: Approx. 10 fl oz (300 ml) per cup
  • Dimensions (per cup): Diameter: approx. 3.1 in (80 mm) × Height: approx. 4.3 in (110 mm)
  • Box Size: 4.3 × 6.9 × 4.5 in (110 × 175 × 115 mm)
  • Weight: Approx. 1.1 lb (500 g)
  • Made in Japan – Seifu, under the guidance of Kazufumi Wada
Care instructions
  • Dishwasher and microwave safe.
  • To preserve the glaze, avoid extreme thermal shock.
Maker

This set is supervised by Kazufumi Wada, a master potter from the esteemed Keizan Kiln in the Mino region. Continuing a legacy of over 90 years, Wada-san honors traditional methods—molding each piece by hand without the use of forms—and brings modern refinement to ancient techniques.

His works have been showcased at prestigious events including the Asahi Ceramic Exhibition, the Chunichi International Ceramic Exhibition, and the International Ceramic and Porcelain Festival. A member of the Mino Ceramics Association, he is also a recipient of the 35th Takuo Award for outstanding contribution to ceramic arts.

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.

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
Kazufumi_Wada_-_1000x1000_px

Made by Kazufumi Wada in Toki City, Japan

Kazufumi Wada carries forward a legacy of over 90 years at Keizan Kiln, founded by his grandfather Keijiro Wada, with an unwavering commitment to the timeless art of Japanese ceramics. A true master of his craft, Wada creates each piece entirely by hand—eschewing molds in favor of intuition, tradition, and an acute sensitivity to clay, glaze, and flame. His work is defined by a pursuit of glaze richness, achieved through meticulous control of kiln temperature and firing time, resulting in surfaces that feel both organic and refined. A member of the Mino Ceramics Association, Wada has earned numerous accolades, including selections to prestigious exhibitions such as the Asahi Ceramic Exhibition, Chunichi International Ceramic Exhibition, and the International Ceramic and Porcelain Festival. In recognition of his artistry, he was awarded the 35th Takuo Award by the Mino Ceramic Art Association. Through his guidance and creations, Kazufumi Wada offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the living tradition of Japanese pottery.

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 my matcha bowls before using them?

In most cases, seasoning a matcha bowl is not necessary—especially if the bowl is fully glazed, as the glaze naturally seals the surface and makes it ready for use. However, if the bowl is unglazed or has a raw clay base, a simple seasoning process called medome can help prevent cracking or staining. To season, soak the bowl in warm water mixed with a spoonful of cooked rice or flour for about 30–60 minutes, then rinse and let it dry completely. This step helps fill tiny pores in the ceramic and adds durability over time.