Shonzui Kachomon Kumidashiwan Teacup

A masterfully crafted Kiyomizu porcelain teacup, handmade and hand-painted by renowned Japanese artisan, Katō Seishō.

Kato Seishō works from his ceramic studio near Sennyū-ji Temple in Kyoto. The white porcelain base is crafted by his father, Seishō the Second, while the detailed painting and finishing are done by Seishō himself. The walls of the teacup are so delicately thin that, when held up to the light, the outer pattern becomes visible from within — a testament to the artisans’ remarkable skill.

On the teapot in medallions resembling zen buddhist temple windows, there are hand-painted scenes of birds resting on tree branches surrounded with imaginary flowers. This fine blue under-glazing style is called Shonzui and it originates from China. It was produced in private kilns in Jingdezhen during the late Ming Dynasty (1628–1644). The porcelain features detailed brushwork using cobalt blue pigment, applied before glazing and firing at high temperatures to achieve a vivid, durable finish.

Katō Seishō has showcased his work at prestigious events, including the Japan Sencha Crafts Exhibition, part of the annual National Sencha Tea Ceremony Gathering held each May at Ōbakusan Manpuku-ji Temple.


Kyo or Kiyomizu pottery looks back on 400 years history, and is now a symbol of Kyoto. To serve the desire of Aristocrats, tea masters and culinary specialists of the era, Kyo or Kiyomizu pottery has incorporated design and artistry not only from Japan but also from China and the Korean Peninsula. Even up to now exquisite artistry and excellent craftsmanship is a core quality of Kyo ware: each piece is modeled and decorated carefully by hand.



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☆ HANDMADE PRODUCT - Please note that the item we have in stock might not be the same piece shown on the pictures above. Each piece is unique and slightly different from each other. If you are particular about either the size, the capacity or the appearance, contact us, and we will share photos or the exact details of our available pieces in stock.

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