Vintage Japanese Kiyomizu-yaki Stoneware Mug Pair, Mid Showa (1946-1965) | SKU: 26M-646-4

Vintage Japanese Kiyomizu-yaki Stoneware Mug Pair, Mid Showa (1946-1965) | SKU: 26M-646-4

A matched pair of handcrafted Kyoto stoneware mugs in warm amber and ochre, presented in their original signed wooden box.

Kiyomizu-yaki is a celebrated tradition of Kyoto ceramics centered around the historic Kiyomizudera district, prized for refined hand-forming and richly layered glazework. This matched pair of vintage Japanese stoneware mugs exemplifies the warm, earthy character of mid-century Kiyomizu-yaki at its most approachable -- generous cylindrical forms dressed in a two-zone surface treatment: a freely mottled amber-orange glaze across the upper body, and a finely ribbed lower section accented with impressed chrysanthemum-like rosette motifs. The interiors are finished in a soft white glaze with fine crazing, a hallmark of traditional Japanese ceramic craft. A substantial looped handle is applied to each cup, sharing the same textured amber glaze as the body. Both mugs bear the official Kiyomizu-yaki cooperative seal label, and the paulownia wooden storage box is inscribed and sealed by the potter -- a presentation format typically reserved for gifted or collectible ware.

In a modern home these handcrafted Japanese stoneware mugs bring an immediate wabi-sabi aesthetic to the breakfast table or kitchen shelf. Use them daily for morning coffee, matcha, or tea -- their generous form keeps drinks warm and the tactile surface is a pleasure to hold. Beyond the table, a single mug works beautifully as a desktop pen and brush holder in a home office, or as a small bedside planter for a trailing succulent, adding organic warmth to minimalist decor or a Japandi-style interior. The original signed wooden box elevates the pair into a distinctive housewarming gift or a unique gift for collectors of vintage Japanese ceramics.

• Origin: Kyoto, Japan (Kiyomizu-yaki)
• Era: 1946-1965 (Mid Showa)
• Material: Stoneware with mottled amber iron glaze (upper body), ribbed and impressed clay surface with pale glaze (lower body); white-glazed interior with natural crazing; kiri (paulownia) wooden presentation box
• Use: Drinking vessels -- originally presented as a gift-boxed matched pair for everyday or ceremonial use
• Modern Use: Daily coffee or tea mugs; desktop pen and brush holders; small planters or decorative accents in a wabi-sabi or Japandi-style living space
• Features: Matched pair; two-zone surface treatment with mottled amber glaze over impressed chrysanthemum rosette motifs; substantial applied loop handle on each; white crackle-glazed interior; official Kiyomizu-yaki cooperative seal on each mug; original signed and sealed wooden presentation box
• Dimensions: 3 1/4"Diameter x 4 1/4"H (each cup)
• Condition: Excellent

A beautifully preserved pair of vintage Japanese Kiyomizu-yaki ceramics -- handcrafted in Kyoto and presented in their original signed box, ready to bring warmth and artisan character to any modern home.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.