KOHCHI HANA NEKO Yunomi - pair (handcrafted)

Handcrafted Teacup: pair: 200ml (6.76fl oz) each, diameter: 3.15inches (8cm) height: 3.15inches (8cm) Traditional Kyo Yaki (Kyoto Style)
Made by Shohoh Itoh at Shohoh Kiln

KOHCHI refers to a technique of glazing used for this cup, HANA means flower, and NEKO is a cat in Japanese. The vibrant glaze is glossy like glass, and it is edged by a white, textured line called ICCHIN. This work features relaxed cats facing away from us. It reminds us of our own cats staring into the sky while enjoying a sunny spot by the window. Maybe they are waiting for their owners to come home.

The KOHCHI technique is to edge each pattern, placing a fine border of clay around each design. This limits the flowing of glaze or pigment and allows the artisan to create a graceful, vivid pattern. This unique textured edge is created with the technique called ICCHIN. It is fascinating that these traditional and sophisticated skills are employed to create this modern, fun, yet comforting aesthetic of the cup.

A closer look at the cup reveals that every pattern is painted by hand, each stroke carrying its own subtle variation, ensuring that no two motifs are identical. The cats’ footprints inside the cup add playfulness to this piece, inviting you to guess which cat left the marks. The blue background is applied in careful, repeated layers, creating a gentle unevenness that speaks to the authenticity of handcrafted art. It is this delicate irregularity that gives the piece its depth.

Despite the use of vivid colors, the overall impression remains remarkably natural and warm. What contributes to the quality is the cup’s beautifully rounded form, which fits comfortably in your hand and offers a distinctive touch created through the ICCHIN technique. The base is gently scraped and finished with soft brown paint that harmonizes with the rim. We’re confident this piece will become your everyday favorite — a delightful gift for any cat-loving friend.

Specially packaged in a carton box.
Lead-free. Made in Japan.