Colorful Sasanqua Yunomi Japanese Teacup Pair

This pair of Japanese yunomi teacups is decorated with colorful sasanqua flowers, a familiar sight in Japan from late autumn through winter. Each bloom is outlined with a fine line of gold, bringing definition to the petals and a subtle luster to the design. The glossy glazed surface brings out the vivid colors of the floral decoration. Thin blue stripes encircle the foot and inner rim of each cup, providing a crisp contrast to the colorful blossoms.

The set includes one larger and one smaller cup, forming a coordinated pair. Softly rounded forms fit comfortably in the hand, while the gently outward-curving rims give the cups an open profile. Pair this set with the matching teapot to create a cohesive tea setting.

Bizan Kiln

Founded in the late Meiji era, Bizan Kiln is devoted to bringing the vivid colors and enduring appeal of Kutani ware into the present day. Every piece is meticulously hand-painted by skilled artisans, whose careful work gives each vessel subtle variations and a character of its own.

Carefully layered pigments create rich surfaces with gentle depth. From designs inspired by masters such as Hokusai to charming animal and floral motifs, the kiln’s creations reveal a wide range of expression, with vibrant color and assured brushwork bringing each motif vividly to life.

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.