Mikawachi Mug 1

Description

Crafted by the revered Hirado Shouzan Kiln, this mug represents over 400 years of refined porcelain artistry rooted in the tradition of Mikawachi-yaki. Renowned for its delicate painting and luminous white porcelain, this piece highlights both technical mastery and timeless design.

Made with pure Amakusa pottery stone, which contains minimal iron, the porcelain achieves exceptional whiteness—ideal for intricate indigo blue detailing. Firing at high temperatures brings out the vivid gosu pigment and results in a smooth, glass-like finish. A clear glaze enhances the contrast between the white base and blue design, showcasing each hand-painted line with remarkable clarity. The painting technique—applying solid blue decoration before firing—requires high-level precision and is executed entirely by hand.

Pattern:
Hirado Tokusa Raimon – This elegant motif combines vertical double lines representing Tokusa (horsetail plant) with Raimon (thunder pattern) formed from fine square lines. The precision and delicacy of this design highlight the contrast between the deep indigo blue and bright white porcelain, reflecting a classic sense of Japanese minimalism and structure.

Usage Precautions:
• Glaze flow and texture may vary slightly due to kiln conditions—this is a characteristic of handcrafted porcelain.

• Discontinue use if the item becomes chipped or cracked to avoid breakage or injury.

• Wash promptly after use, dry thoroughly, and avoid long-term moisture exposure.

• Refrain from using abrasive scrubbers or cleansers to protect the painted surface.

What is Mikawachi-yaki?
Originating in Nagasaki during the Edo period, Mikawachi-yaki was developed in goyōgama kilns to create fine porcelain gifts for the ruling Hirado domain. With a focus on artistry over efficiency, these kilns produced highly detailed pieces sought after by nobility. Since the Meiji era, Mikawachi ware has remained a symbol of precision and elegance, valued by collectors in Japan and beyond.