Susumu Takai Myoko ware teacup & flower vase & ceramic plate with original box This refined teacup exemplifies the quiet elegance and craftsmanship of Myōkō-yaki pottery, created by the Japanese ceramic artist Takai Susumu. The vessel often features a simple yet dignified form, with clay worked on the potter’s wheel and finished with a glaze or natural clay surface that emphasizes texture and subtle colour variations. In pieces described as “朱泥風” (reddish-clay style), the teacup displays a warm, earthy reddish-brown tone with a gentle luster — the result of careful glazing and firing. The balance between modest size, understated glaze, and fine clay body gives the teacup a humble yet dignified presence, making it suitable both for daily tea use and as a collectible object. Many of Takai’s teacups come with their original signed wooden box (tomobako), indicating authenticity and respect for tradition. About Myōkō-yaki : Myōkō-yaki is a regional pottery tradition associated with the Myōkō area of Niigata Prefecture in Japan. Works under this tradition often emphasize natural glazes, simple forms, and utilitarian elegance — a style that values the clay’s texture, the glaze’s subtlety, and functional beauty over ornate decoration. Pieces such as teacups or vases may feature soft celadon or “sufu-seiji” (蘇浮青磁) glazing, rustic reddish-clay finishes, or unglazed clay textures that highlight the material’s natural qualities. Artists working in Myōkō-yaki — including Takai Susumu — tend to favour quiet aesthetics, refined shapes, and a close connection to nature, making Myōkō-yaki pieces appreciated as both everyday ware and objects of art. About the Artist Takai Susumu: Takai Susumu was born in 1938 (Showa 13) and later established his kiln in the Myōkō Highlands, dedicating himself to the Myōkō-yaki tradition. Over his career he became a full member of 日本工芸会, a major association for Japanese traditional crafts, and his works — including teacups, vases, plates, and ceramic panels — have been consistently exhibited, entering regional and national exhibitions. His works are praised for their “earthy simplicity and quiet beauty”: rather than flamboyant decoration, he pursues harmony between clay, glaze, shape and function, yielding pieces with calm dignity and refined sensibility. Size flower vase 25cm tea cup 9cm ceramic plate 18.5cm Shipping from Japan with Tracking Number & Insurance. I promise fast shipping via FedEx or DHL as soon as possible! Import duties, taxes and charges are not included in the item price or shipping charges. These charges are the buyer’s responsibility. 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.