Gagyu Kiln - Tea cup (2) - Ceramic
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Description from the seller
Gagyu Kiln (臥牛窯) – White Heron Yunomi Tea Cups (Pair) – Utsutsugawa Ware – With Original Tomobako – Nagasaki Important Intangible Cultural Property
Product Overview
This elegant pair of yunomi tea cups was created by Gagyu Kiln (臥牛窯), the renowned kiln responsible for preserving and reviving the historic tradition of Utsutsugawa Ware (Utsutsugawa-yaki), designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Nagasaki Prefecture.
The cups feature the kiln's celebrated White Heron (Shirasagi) design, one of its most iconic decorative motifs. Gracefully hand-painted white herons stand against a rich dark brown ground, while the distinctive brushed patterns characteristic of Utsutsugawa Ware create depth and movement across the surface.
Presented with the original signed wooden storage box (tomobako), this beautiful matching pair is suitable for daily use as well as for collectors of Japanese ceramics and traditional crafts.
Product Details
Utsutsugawa Ware originated in the Utsutsugawa district of Nagasaki during the late 17th century but disappeared after only about fifty years, earning its reputation as the "phantom kiln" of Japanese ceramics. Through extensive historical research and technical reconstruction, generations of potters at Gagyu Kiln successfully revived this remarkable ceramic tradition and continue its legacy today.
This pair showcases the kiln's representative White Heron motif, carefully hand-painted with elegant restraint. The white herons symbolize good fortune and are traditionally regarded in Japan as birds that open new paths, making them an auspicious design appreciated for both everyday use and special occasions.
The textured background is created using the traditional decorative techniques unique to Utsutsugawa Ware, producing subtle linear patterns that enhance the depth and character of each vessel.
The White Heron design has become one of Gagyu Kiln's signature works. In 2015, a White Heron vase produced by the kiln was selected as an official presentation gift for Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress of Japan, reflecting the high regard for this distinctive artistic style.
Beautifully balanced as a matching couple's tea cup set, these yunomi embody both refined craftsmanship and the enduring tradition of Japanese ceramics.
Product Specifications
Artist: Gagyu Kiln (臥牛窯)
Title: White Heron Yunomi Tea Cups (Pair)
Type: Yunomi Tea Cups (Pair)
Ware: Utsutsugawa Ware (現川焼)
Material: Ceramic
Technique: Hand-painted decoration with traditional Utsutsugawa Ware techniques
Motif: White Heron
Dimensions (each):
Height: 7.5 cm (3.0 in)
Diameter: 7.3 cm (2.9 in)
Original Box: Yes (Tomobako)
Condition: Pre-owned antique/collectible condition. No noticeable chips, cracks, or repairs were observed. Minor surface wear consistent with age and careful storage.
About the Artist
Gagyu Kiln is one of the most respected kilns dedicated to preserving the tradition of Utsutsugawa Ware, a historic ceramic style originating in Nagasaki. Through generations of research and craftsmanship, the kiln has successfully revived techniques once believed to have been lost, contributing significantly to the continuation of this important regional ceramic heritage. The kiln has been designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Nagasaki Prefecture.
Background of the Product
Utsutsugawa Ware is a distinctive form of Japanese pottery that flourished briefly during the late 17th century before disappearing for centuries. Its characteristic brush-decorated surfaces and sophisticated glazing techniques distinguish it from other Japanese ceramic traditions.
The White Heron motif occupies a special place within Japanese culture as an auspicious symbol associated with prosperity, purity, and opening new paths. Combined with the unique decorative techniques of Utsutsugawa Ware, this pair represents both artistic beauty and the enduring legacy of one of Japan's most fascinating ceramic traditions.
All photos were taken by the seller. They also show the actual product to be delivered.
Shipping
Shipped by FedEx or EMS with tracking number and compensation. Unless there are some irregularities such as bad weather or traffic problems, delivery can be made in about one week from the time of payment.
International Buyers - Please Note
Import duties, taxes and charges are not included in the item price or shipping charges. These charges are the buyer's responsibility.
Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding/buying.
These charges are normally collected by the delivering freight (shipping) company or when you pick the item up - do not confuse them for additional shipping charges.
We do not mark merchandise values below value or mark items as gifts. International government regulations prohibit such behavior.
Seller's Story
Welcome to Earst Japan.
Based in Japan and trusted by collectors worldwide through more than 280 successful Catawiki sales, we specialize in Japanese art, antiques, traditional craftsmanship, collectible knives, and carefully selected cultural treasures.
Every item is sourced directly in Japan through our trusted local network and carefully selected for its authenticity, craftsmanship, and collector value before being offered to collectors worldwide. We evaluate authenticity, condition, provenance when available, and collector significance to provide buyers with confidence and transparency.
We believe exceptional objects are more than possessions. They carry history, artistry, tradition, and the stories of the people who created, preserved, and cherished them across generations.
From fine artworks and antique objects to handcrafted Japanese knives and cultural artifacts, we focus on pieces that represent authentic craftsmanship, cultural significance, and lasting value.
Our goal is to connect meaningful pieces of Japanese history and craftsmanship with their next custodian, ensuring that their stories continue to be appreciated for years to come.
Thank you for visiting Earst Japan. We look forward to sharing the beauty, heritage, and enduring craftsmanship of Japan with collectors around the world.
Gagyu Kiln (臥牛窯) – White Heron Yunomi Tea Cups (Pair) – Utsutsugawa Ware – With Original Tomobako – Nagasaki Important Intangible Cultural Property
Product Overview
This elegant pair of yunomi tea cups was created by Gagyu Kiln (臥牛窯), the renowned kiln responsible for preserving and reviving the historic tradition of Utsutsugawa Ware (Utsutsugawa-yaki), designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Nagasaki Prefecture.
The cups feature the kiln's celebrated White Heron (Shirasagi) design, one of its most iconic decorative motifs. Gracefully hand-painted white herons stand against a rich dark brown ground, while the distinctive brushed patterns characteristic of Utsutsugawa Ware create depth and movement across the surface.
Presented with the original signed wooden storage box (tomobako), this beautiful matching pair is suitable for daily use as well as for collectors of Japanese ceramics and traditional crafts.
Product Details
Utsutsugawa Ware originated in the Utsutsugawa district of Nagasaki during the late 17th century but disappeared after only about fifty years, earning its reputation as the "phantom kiln" of Japanese ceramics. Through extensive historical research and technical reconstruction, generations of potters at Gagyu Kiln successfully revived this remarkable ceramic tradition and continue its legacy today.
This pair showcases the kiln's representative White Heron motif, carefully hand-painted with elegant restraint. The white herons symbolize good fortune and are traditionally regarded in Japan as birds that open new paths, making them an auspicious design appreciated for both everyday use and special occasions.
The textured background is created using the traditional decorative techniques unique to Utsutsugawa Ware, producing subtle linear patterns that enhance the depth and character of each vessel.
The White Heron design has become one of Gagyu Kiln's signature works. In 2015, a White Heron vase produced by the kiln was selected as an official presentation gift for Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress of Japan, reflecting the high regard for this distinctive artistic style.
Beautifully balanced as a matching couple's tea cup set, these yunomi embody both refined craftsmanship and the enduring tradition of Japanese ceramics.
Product Specifications
Artist: Gagyu Kiln (臥牛窯)
Title: White Heron Yunomi Tea Cups (Pair)
Type: Yunomi Tea Cups (Pair)
Ware: Utsutsugawa Ware (現川焼)
Material: Ceramic
Technique: Hand-painted decoration with traditional Utsutsugawa Ware techniques
Motif: White Heron
Dimensions (each):
Height: 7.5 cm (3.0 in)
Diameter: 7.3 cm (2.9 in)
Original Box: Yes (Tomobako)
Condition: Pre-owned antique/collectible condition. No noticeable chips, cracks, or repairs were observed. Minor surface wear consistent with age and careful storage.
About the Artist
Gagyu Kiln is one of the most respected kilns dedicated to preserving the tradition of Utsutsugawa Ware, a historic ceramic style originating in Nagasaki. Through generations of research and craftsmanship, the kiln has successfully revived techniques once believed to have been lost, contributing significantly to the continuation of this important regional ceramic heritage. The kiln has been designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Nagasaki Prefecture.
Background of the Product
Utsutsugawa Ware is a distinctive form of Japanese pottery that flourished briefly during the late 17th century before disappearing for centuries. Its characteristic brush-decorated surfaces and sophisticated glazing techniques distinguish it from other Japanese ceramic traditions.
The White Heron motif occupies a special place within Japanese culture as an auspicious symbol associated with prosperity, purity, and opening new paths. Combined with the unique decorative techniques of Utsutsugawa Ware, this pair represents both artistic beauty and the enduring legacy of one of Japan's most fascinating ceramic traditions.
All photos were taken by the seller. They also show the actual product to be delivered.
Shipping
Shipped by FedEx or EMS with tracking number and compensation. Unless there are some irregularities such as bad weather or traffic problems, delivery can be made in about one week from the time of payment.
International Buyers - Please Note
Import duties, taxes and charges are not included in the item price or shipping charges. These charges are the buyer's responsibility.
Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding/buying.
These charges are normally collected by the delivering freight (shipping) company or when you pick the item up - do not confuse them for additional shipping charges.
We do not mark merchandise values below value or mark items as gifts. International government regulations prohibit such behavior.
Seller's Story
Welcome to Earst Japan.
Based in Japan and trusted by collectors worldwide through more than 280 successful Catawiki sales, we specialize in Japanese art, antiques, traditional craftsmanship, collectible knives, and carefully selected cultural treasures.
Every item is sourced directly in Japan through our trusted local network and carefully selected for its authenticity, craftsmanship, and collector value before being offered to collectors worldwide. We evaluate authenticity, condition, provenance when available, and collector significance to provide buyers with confidence and transparency.
We believe exceptional objects are more than possessions. They carry history, artistry, tradition, and the stories of the people who created, preserved, and cherished them across generations.
From fine artworks and antique objects to handcrafted Japanese knives and cultural artifacts, we focus on pieces that represent authentic craftsmanship, cultural significance, and lasting value.
Our goal is to connect meaningful pieces of Japanese history and craftsmanship with their next custodian, ensuring that their stories continue to be appreciated for years to come.
Thank you for visiting Earst Japan. We look forward to sharing the beauty, heritage, and enduring craftsmanship of Japan with collectors around the world.
Details
Era
After 2000
Weight
0 g
Number of objects
2
Country of origin
Japan
Manufacturer/brand
Gagyu Kiln
Material
Ceramic
Colour
Brown
Condition
Fair condition - heavily used & with possibly minor parts missing
Height
0 cm
Width
0 cm
Depth
0 cm
Estimated period
2000-2010
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