Shigaraki-yaki Handmade Ceramic Teacup | SUMI

Handmade in Shigaraki, Shiga Prefecture, this teacup brings a contemporary character to one of Japan’s oldest ceramic traditions.

Its softly rounded body rises from a compact foot to a gently flared rim, with pronounced horizontal throwing lines tracing the movement of the wheel. 

The most distinctive feature is its unusual charcoal-grey surface with a subtle metallic lustre. Predominantly matte, the finish develops a soft silvery sheen where light meets the raised contours of the clay.

From one angle it appears smoky and almost black; from another, graphite and steel-grey tones emerge across the surface.

Shigaraki, Shaped by Earth and Fire

With centuries of ceramic history, Shigaraki-yaki (信楽焼) is one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns. While historically recognised for its coarse local clay and natural firing effects, contemporary Shigaraki encompasses a much broader range of approaches as makers continue to experiment with clay bodies, glazes, surface treatments and firing.

This piece reflects that evolving side of the tradition: a functional everyday teacup with a distinctly contemporary surface expression, while retaining the marks of the hand that formed it.

Product Details

+ Dimension: Approx. D80mm x H68mm

+ Region: Shigaraki, Japan

+ Material: Clay