Manganese ceramic cup from the Tokinoha studio

This coffee or tea cup from the Tokinoha studio features a slender silhouette, with the material appearing as if carved from dark rock in a beautiful contrast of glazes. The matte surface, a deep, slightly brownish gray, reveals subtle nuances and drip marks, as if frozen by the kiln's heat and softened by the delicate, off-white glazed rim. The piece as a whole exudes a sense of calm and rigor, true to the understated and contemporary aesthetic of Japanese ceramics from Kyoto.

The ceramicist
Founded in Kyoto by Daisuke and Tomoe Kiyomizu, the Tokinoha studio is distinguished by an approach that connects traditional craftsmanship with modern design (Daisuke is a descendant of the famous Kiyomizu family, guardians of the Kyoto kiyomizu-yaki tradition). The pieces, handcrafted by the studio's artisans, reflect a thoughtful focus on simplicity and texture, seeking to express the beauty of everyday life through pure, balanced forms.

Technique and decor
This cup is crafted from ceramic using a manganese-rich clay, a natural element that gives the piece its characteristic gray-brown hue. The surface, left intentionally matte, bears witness to a reduction firing process that brings out metallic undertones and fire marks. Inside, the irregular drips visible in the light are the result of a slight excess of glaze that partially vitrified during firing, creating organic and unpredictable effects. This contrast between the precision of the form and the spontaneity of the decor captures the spirit of Tokinoha: a constant dialogue between mastery and chance, between the human touch and the natural transformation of the material.

Practical information
Place of manufacture
Japan (Kyoto)

Dimensions
Diameter 8.8 cm - Height 7 cm

Weight
94 g

Materials
Ceramic (manganese clay)

Period
Contemporary

Care instructions
After use, empty any liquid and let air dry. Avoid thermal shock and abrasive products. Wipe with a soft cloth. Not suitable for dishwasher, oven, or microwave.