This is a Green Oribe glaze cup handmade by Kyoto pottery masters.
Kyo ware is one of Japan’s most representative traditional ceramic arts, born in the ancient capital of Kyoto — a city that has been the cultural and spiritual heart of Japan for over a thousand years.
The vivid green of the Oribe glaze evokes the freshness of new spring leaves.
The faceted form was forged by applied traditional mentori(面取) techniques, it is carefully shaped for a secure, comfortable grip that resists slipping.
Shinogi鎬(means ridges) created by faceting plaines give the cup a strong presence, while forming soft vertical lines
and enhancing the natural character and earthy texture of the clay.
Originally, the word 鎬shinogi comes from the ridge line of a samurai sword blade in order to reinforce the blade— something strong and defined. the same philosophy applied to pottery too.
the Oribe green glaze is originally from Oribe ware.
Oribe ware (Oribe-yaki) originated in Japan during the early 17th century, in the Momoyama period. It is named after the tea master Furuta Oribe, who encouraged bold and innovative aesthetics in tea ceramics.Oribe is known for its vivid green glaze, dynamic forms, and expressive designs. Unlike earlier, more restrained wares, Oribe embraced asymmetry, movement, and a playful spirit — reflecting a new freedom in tea culture.
The distinctive green glaze is created using copper, producing rich tones that range from deep moss to fresh spring leaf.
Although Oribe glaze originated in oribe ware in mino regions, Kyoto potters have long embraced and reinterpreted it through the lens of Kyo-yaki aesthetics.
In Mino, Oribe is often bold, asymmetrical, and spontaneous — expressive and rustic.
In Kyoto, however, the same Oribe green becomes more restrained and refined. The form is balanced, the carving deliberate, the elegance understated. The wild spirit of Momoyama is gently harmonized with Kyoto’s cultivated sensitivity.
so it is
The spirit of Oribe
expressed through the discipline of Kyoto.
This cup reflects that dialogue:
The vivid green suggests fresh spring foliage, while the sharply carved shinogi ridges bring strength and structure. Earthiness and refinement coexist — a quiet tension that defines Kyoto craftsmanship.
As each piece is handmade, slight variations in size, color, and pattern may occur.
This yunomi embodies the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi — elegance, simplicity, imperfection, and natural beauty.
Each piece is handmade and hand-painted. Slight differences in shape, color, and pattern are a natural part of its handcrafted character.
In addition, variations in firing conditions and glaze flow ensure that every piece has a unique appearance.
last but not least : Natural crazing — fine crackle patterns formed as the glaze cools after firing — may appear and vary from piece to piece, giving each work its own individuality and depth.
Please enjoy this teacup as a one-of-a-kind vessel whose character deepens and grows more beautiful with every use.
The teacup comes with a traditional paulownia wood box (kiribako), featuring handwritten kanji calligraphy and stamps.
Please enjoy this teacup as a one-of-a-kind vessel whose character deepens and grows more beautiful with every use.
The teacup comes with a traditional paulownia wood box (kiribako), featuring Japanese calligraphy and stamps.
⸻
About Kyo Ware (京焼) / Kiyomizu Ware (清水焼)
Kyo ware is one of Japan’s most representative traditional ceramic arts, born in the ancient capital of Kyoto — a city that has been the cultural and spiritual heart of Japan for over a thousand years.
Kyo ware is also known as Kiyomizu ware, as it was originally produced in kilns along Kiyomizu-zaka, the road leading to the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
Pottery production in Kyoto dates back to the late 5th century. To meet the refined demands of the aristocracy and tea masters, ceramic techniques from China, Korea, Southeast Asia, and other regions of Japan were introduced and carefully preserved in Kyoto.
From the 16th century onward, Kyo ware flourished under the influence of the great tea master Sen no Rikyū, founder of the wabi-cha tradition of the Japanese Way of Tea.
In a broad sense, Kyo ware encompasses all ceramics produced in the Kyoto region, using a wide range of materials and techniques — including the world-renowned Raku ware.
⸻
Care: Hand wash only
Size: Approx. 290 ml / 12 cm × 8 cm
Shipped from Québec, Canada
Free Japanese-style gift wrapping available upon request
