SEKKA SOUKA ZU - FUJI (handcrafted: 200ml)

Handcrafted teacup: 200ml (7.04fl oz), diameter: 3.14inches (8cm) height: 3.54inches (9cm)
Sophisticated Kyo Yaki (Kyoto Style)
Made by Zenshoh Yamaoka at Zenshoh Kiln

We, Hibiki-an have collaborated with Zenshoh Yamaoka, who is the leading expert of paintings derived from masterpieces in the middle ages and acclaimed Kyo Yaki artisan, to release a series of tea cups featuring Sekka collections. Zenshoh Yamaoka chose JYUNIKAGETSU SOUKA ZU. Each painting is well decorated by his unique sense.

Sekka Kamisaka, who was born in Kyoto is an artist and designer in recent and modern times. He deeply committed himself to paintings of the RINPA school, and was greatly influenced by the design of Honami Kouetsu and Kohrin Ogata from the RINPA Japanese painting school. His paintings feature a bold composition and layout. Also, the TARASHIKOMI technique, in which colors are dripped into not-fully dried ink, is frequently used. Both techniques originate from the characteristics of the RINPA school, so he is considered as the successor of RINPA (for more information, please visit http://www.hibiki-an.com/contents.php/cnID/85#1289).

FUJI means Japanese wisteria. Japanese wisteria is loved in Japan for its purple color which is also called FUJI. BYODOIN Temple, which is on the world heritage list and located in Uji, Kyoto, is also famous for FUJI Japanese wisteria planted spectacularly and elegantly in the garden. Purple color FUJI wisteria elegantly painted on this teacup evokes the coming of spring.

FUJI wisteria is boldly drawn in the center of this Yunomi cup. Even though each flower is diminutive, the bright and vivid colors of the petals and leaves create a bold impression. The veins are decorated in gold, which adds to the elegant atmosphere. They are painted in a curved line with a refined touch, which creates the beautiful image of the FUJI wisteria.

In contrast to the strong color of the flowers, the branch and trunk are painted in pale brown. Even though they are decorated in monotone color, the gradation technique creates the realistic image. This is one of the key RINPA techniques and called TARASHIKOMI. TARASHIKOMI is when colors are dripped into not-fully dried ink. The coincidental effect of the blur creates unique and unforeseeable coloring. Different from folding screens and hanging scrolls, it is very difficult to use this technique on ceramic teaware, but its faithful reproduction of Sekka’s work expresses the realistic image.

The expression of spring flowers evokes the joy of spring, especially new life. We are certain that this Yunomi will enrich the taste of Japanese green tea, which is a gift from nature.

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