Whiskey Barrel Ash Glaze Yunomi (handcrafted: pair)

This was previously a regular item and was hugely popular. The artist has reworked the design and we have brought it back to our line because of many requests from our customers.

Handcrafted teacup: 90ml (3.17fl oz) each, diameter: 3.35inch (8.5cm) height: 2.17inch (5.5cm)
Sophisticated Shiagaraki-Yaki
Made by Hozan Tanii

The glaze of this Yunomi is made from the ash of whisky barrels from Suntory, the largest and most traditional whisky manufacturer in Japan. The whisky barrels were made from 100-year old white oak trees, and were used at Suntory for 50 to 60 years.

The atmosphere created by the glaze made from whisky barrel ash is one of stars and planets in distant galaxies. The design is created using two different kinds of whisky barrel ash glaze and is quite unique and subtle.

Your eye will also focus on the bottom of the Yunomi, on which the earthen surface appears. It is called "Tsuchi Mise" meaning "showing soil" and is one of the most traditional and difficult techniques used for the highest grade Raku Yaki matcha bowls. The earthen surface is finished with a rough texture in order to create the WABI-SABI atmosphere. To create this unique texture, some efforts and techniques are required, for example unique innovations of clay blending and shaping.

Of course, from a functional view point this Yunomi is well thought out and of an ideal design. This Yunomi is thin ceramic in order to enjoy the subtle flavor of high quality Japanese tea, which tastes best when served in a thin ceramic cup. Most Shigaraki Yaki pottery is too thick to enjoy high quality Japanese tea. To create thin Shigaraki Yaki requires many efforts. For example, Hozan Tanii collects his own clay from the mountain, and is continuously experimenting with new ceramic and glaze formulations and techniques to perfect his designs.

The contrast of two atmospheres, sophistication brought by whisky barrel ash glaze and rough texture brought by traditional Raku Yaki technique "Tsuchi Mise" are subtle and artistic. Upon using this Yunomi, one can realize the care and sophisticated technique employed by the artist.

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