Vintage item, never used. This Hagi-yaki (萩焼) tea cup set was crafted by Tenpōzan Kiln (天鵬山), embodying the quiet elegance and warmth for which traditional Hagi ware is celebrated.
The set consists of five matching Yunomi (湯呑) tea cups, each featuring a soft, milky white glaze with delicate blush-pink and earthy beige tones. The gently irregular shapes, subtle glaze variations, and natural clay textures reflect the rustic beauty of Japanese pottery and the aesthetic philosophy of Wabi-sabi (侘寂), which embraces simplicity, imperfection, and the passage of time.
Tenpōzan (天鵬山) is a pottery kiln located in Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, one of Japan's most historically significant ceramic-producing regions. The kiln specialises in Hagi-yaki, a traditional pottery style renowned for its soft textures, subtle colour gradations, and understated beauty.
Hagi-yaki (萩焼) has a history dating back to the early 17th century and is particularly treasured in the Japanese tea ceremony. Known for its porous clay and softly glazed surfaces, Hagi ware develops a unique character through repeated use. This gradual transformation, known as Hagi no Nanabake (萩の七化け), or the "Seven Changes of Hagi," refers to the subtle changes in colour and appearance that occur as tea gradually penetrates the ceramic surface over time.
Each cup reveals delicate variations in its glaze, with warm pink hues emerging beneath the pale ivory surface. The exposed clay foot rings further highlight the natural character of the pottery, creating a beautiful balance between refined craftsmanship and organic simplicity.
Presented in its original wooden Tomobako (共箱) storage box, bearing the kiln's calligraphy and seal, this charming set is a wonderful example of traditional Japanese ceramic artistry.
Size: 8 x 8 x 6cm
