Bird and Hanazume Mug

Make your morning coffee or tea time a cheerful occasion with this vibrant mug. It is adorned with scattered colorful flowers in the style of hanazume, a decorative Kutani ware technique meaning “filled with flowers.” A charming bird is perched among the flowers set against a turquoise-blue backdrop, all hand-painted by Kutani ware artist  Arakawa Atsuko. The layered pigments can be felt with your fingertips, adding a tactile dimension to the design. 

A well-balanced handle offers a comfortable grip, creating a cozy and satisfying experience. This piece brings a joyful accent to quiet mornings and relaxing moments alike. Thoughtfully crafted and visually captivating, it also makes a wonderful gift for someone special.

Kutani ware is a traditional Japanese porcelain from the Kaga region in Ishikawa Prefecture, with a history spanning over 350 years. Known for its vibrant overglaze enamel designs and use of five signature colors, known as Kutani gosai—navy blue, red, purple, green, and yellow pigments. This timeless craft has continuously evolved through generations of artisans who balance innovation with a deep respect for tradition. 

Kutani ware exhibits a diverse range of distinctive styles, shaped by evolving artistic tastes over the centuries. Styles such as ko-Kutani, with its bold colors, geometric patterns, and painterly detail, and akae-saibyo, marked by ultra-fine red lines. Many pieces feature traditional Japanese motifs, such as kacho (flowers and birds) and sansui (landscapes), offering a timeless glimpse into the beauty of nature and the seasons.