Arita-yaki is one of Japan’s most celebrated porcelain traditions, originating in Arita, Saga Prefecture over 400 years ago. Early Arita porcelain became especially known for Sometsuke (染付), cobalt blue decoration painted beneath a clear glaze, a technique closely connected to the long tradition of Chinese blue-and-white porcelain.
These small teacups show how Arita artists can transform that tradition through contrasting patterns, colors, and decoration on both the inside and outside of the vessel.
The Crimson Vine Landscape immediately stands out with its lively red pattern wrapping around the white porcelain body, accented with touches of cobalt blue. Inside, the character changes completely, revealing a flowing blue landscape across the interior. The combination of cobalt underglaze with red overglaze decoration reflects another important direction in Arita porcelain, where traditional blue-and-white Sometsuke was enriched with additional color.
The Indigo Patchwork stays closer to classic Sometsuke. Its exterior is divided into small sections filled with waves, geometric patterns, and natural forms, creating an almost textile-like surface in deep indigo blue. A warm brown rim adds contrast, while the interior continues the decoration with a repeating lattice pattern.
At just 60 to 65 ml, these cups are ideal for concentrated tea sessions and slow, thoughtful sipping. Each design gives something different to discover as the cup is turned in the hand, making the decoration part of the tea experience itself.
Made in Japan • Traditional Arita Porcelain • Sometsuke and Overglaze Decoration • Selected for Tea & Whisk
