Japanese Teacups, Crackle Glaze – Set of 4

Four straight teacups without handles, with a crackle glaze and a dark clay base.

The thick, luminous glaze is crossed by a network of fine crackles that catch the light. It stops halfway down to reveal a raw clay base, dark and matt, pleasant to the touch.

In Japan, this crackle effect in the glaze has a name: kannyu. This fine network of lines forms on the surface as the piece cools, and it is sought after for the life it brings to the piece.

As Japanese tea tradition has it, these cups have no handle: they are held in both hands, so you can feel the warmth of the tea. At 5.9 cm in diameter and 8 cm high, they suit green tea, hojicha or herbal tea.

Three colours are available: midnight blue, white or turquoise. The set of four is ideal for sharing a tea moment.

Highlights

• Crackle glaze: a fine network of crackles, kannyu.
• No handle: the traditional shape of Japanese teacups.
• Raw base: dark, matt clay.
• 3 colours: midnight blue, white or turquoise.
• Set of 4: made in Japan.

Product information

• Type: Japanese teacups
• Contents: 4 cups
• Material: ceramic
• Origin: Japan (Toki-Tajimi area, Gifu Prefecture, home of Mino ware)
• Dimensions: Ø 5.9 cm, height 8 cm
• Colours: midnight blue, white or turquoise
• Finish: crackle glaze, raw base
• Care: hand washing recommended, microwave safe
• Style: traditional Japanese

How to use

For very hot tea, hold the cup at the bottom, on the raw clay side, which heats up more slowly. Pair them with a Japanese teapot for a complete tea set.

Frequently asked questions

What is kannyu?

It is the Japanese name for crackle in the glaze: a fine network of lines that forms on the surface as the piece cools.

Why do these cups have no handle?

It is the traditional shape of Japanese teacups, which are held in both hands.

Are these cups dishwasher and microwave safe?

Like all ceramics, they are best washed by hand: the dishwasher is not recommended. They can, however, go in the microwave without any problem.