Auspicious Akae Guinomi Sake Cup
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Vivid phoenix and peony motifs draw the eye in this beautifully crafted guinomi sake cup. Its form settles naturally in the hand, allowing the warmth of stoneware and the softness of the detailed brushwork to be appreciated up close.
The decoration is rendered in akae, using Zoho Kiln’s specially developed natural bengara pigment, prepared from a bengara material no longer in production and carefully preserved by the kiln. Over time, the vibrant red will gently mature, gaining depth and character through years of use.
Executed in soft, fluid strokes, the phoenix and peony motifs bring movement and vitality to the surface. A phoenix, a symbol of auspiciousness, shimmers gently at the base each time sake is poured, while the peony adorning the exterior lends a celebratory spirit to the table.
DETAILS
| Quantity | 1 |
| Size | D 6.5 cm (2.6 in) x H 5.5 cm (2.2 in) |
| Capacity | 110 ml (3.7 fl oz) |
| Weight | 110 g (3.9 oz) |
| Material | Stoneware |
| Package Type | Paper box |
| Microwave | Yes |
| Dishwasher | Yes |
Maker / Brand
Zoho Kiln, located in Tajimi City, Gifu Prefecture, is a renowned producer of Mino ware. While their designs are inspired by seasonal flowers and traditional patterns, they also focus on the practical beauty of their pieces, ensuring ease of use and graceful presentation.
Zoho Kiln places particular importance on bengara, the distinctive red pigment used in their akae, or overglaze red enamel, designs. The rich red hue that adorns their pottery deepens in character and becomes even more beautiful with time and use, enhancing the aesthetic experience.
Crafts
Mino ware, crafted in Gifu Prefecture's Tono region, is renowned among Japanese pottery for its rich heritage and versatility. It features over fifteen distinct styles, making it more varied than many other Japanese ceramics.
Now accounting for over 50 percent of Japan's ceramic production, its popularity is unmatched. Designated as a traditional craft in 1978, Mino ware reflects a blend of historical depth and modern relevance, exemplifying exceptional craftsmanship.
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Guinomi
Guinomi are a type of sake cup, smaller than a typical Japanese teacup but somewhat larger than other sake cups. They are often used without a sake carafe, with sake poured directly from the bottle.
Guinomi originally held delicacies during Japanese tea ceremonies, but in time came to be used for drinking sake afterward. They have therefore evolved alongside Japan’s unique tea culture.
Akae
Akae, or red painting, is an overglaze decoration that primarily uses red, complemented by colors such as green, purple and blue. In China, this style originated during the Song Dynasty (960 CE–1279 CE), while in Japan, it was introduced by Sakaida Kakiemon during the Shoho era (1644 CE–1648 CE) and later found its place in Kutani ware.
In Kutani porcelain, akae-saibyo is particularly famous. Akae-saibyo literally means "fine painting in red." Using an extremely fine brush, each line is drawn on the surface of the vessel with exquisite detail, creating breathtakingly intricate patterns.
