Japanese Vintage Yunomi Tea Cup Set of 2 | Iwami Yaki Pottery | Shunji Sonoyama Manga Art Giatrus | Cute Anime Collectible Teaware with Box

The Story Behind This Piece:

In a historic town in the northern part of Hiroshima Prefecture, which has flourished since ancient times as a vital trading hub connecting the San'in and Sanyo regions near the Shimane border, stands a grand ancestral estate. From a heavy, tile-roofed Kura (traditional storehouse) nestled deep within its sprawling grounds, a pair of extraordinary Yunomi (Japanese teacups) has emerged after more than forty years, preserved in astonishingly pristine condition. These teacups were crafted in the year 1982. They were specially commissioned and handmade by the renowned "Iwami-yaki Motoshige Kiln," a historic kiln dedicated to preserving traditional artisan techniques, to commemorate the 37th National Sports Festival of Japan, known as the "Kunibiki Kokutai," held in neighbouring Shimane. The original owner of this northern Hiroshima estate was a highly respected local intellectual and cultural connoisseur who was deeply involved in cross-regional cultural exchanges and industrial development. He genuinely celebrated the hosting of the national festival in the adjacent prefecture, brought these precious teacups across the mountains to his home, and cherished them as special vessels to welcome and entertain esteemed guests. The surface of the teacup features a lively and humorous illustration of the famous "Kunibiki Shinwa" (Land-pulling Myth) from the Izumo Fudoki (ancient chronicles), drawn by the legendary manga artist Shunji Sonoyama, a proud native of Shimane Prefecture. The deity powerfully pulling the rope, accompanied by an adorable white rabbit watching the grand task, warms the hearts of all who view it, vividly conveying the nostalgic energy and warmth of Japan’s Showa period.

To truly understand the value of this piece, one must explore the remarkable brand identity of "Iwami-yaki" (Iwami ware). Developed primarily in the western region of Shimane Prefecture, the defining characteristic of Iwami-yaki is its exceptional durability and practicality. Utilizing high-quality, highly fire-resistant clay mined in the Iwami area, it is fired at temperatures exceeding 1300 degrees Celsius—an extraordinarily high temperature rarely seen in Japanese pottery. This intense firing process results in a ceramic body as hard as porcelain, boasting incredible resilience against water, salt, and acids. Historically, the brand earned nationwide fame for its massive water jars and the traditional "suribachi" (grinding mortars) that supported Japanese kitchens for generations, establishing a rock-solid reputation for embodying functional beauty. Its robust yet generous and rustic appearance was highly praised by the philosophers of the "Mingei" (Folk Art) movement in the early to mid-20th century as the pinnacle of handwork that represents the true spirit of utility. The "Motoshige Kiln," which fired these very teacups, is a prestigious master kiln that authentically inherits the traditions of Iwami-yaki, where artisans continue to carefully connect with the clay to create warm, soulful vessels one by one.

As the excitement of the national festival faded into the late Showa era, these teacups were carefully placed inside their custom-made wooden storage box and laid to rest deep within the Kura of the Hiroshima estate, shielded from the severe winter cold of the northern mountains. They were treated not as mere disposable tableware to be worn down by daily use, but as a precious cultural monument documenting a major milestone in regional history and the deep bond between the two prefectures—a decision driven by the owner’s deep affection and respect for the objects. Inside the traditional storehouse, where temperature and humidity were naturally regulated through the organic wisdom of traditional Japanese architecture, the teacups remained perfectly protected for decades, free from scratches, and retaining their vibrant original colors. Now, in the modern Reiwa era, as the historic Hiroshima estate underwent a thoughtful preservation and organization process, the heavy doors of the Kura were opened once more. In today's fast-paced world, as an antithesis to mass production and mass consumption, there is a powerful global renaissance celebrating the warmth of artisan hands found in "Mingei" and the profound aesthetic of "wabi-sabi"—finding sublime beauty in impermanence, history, and natural aging. Rather than allowing this priceless historical legacy to sleep in the dark forever, the decision was made to bring them out of the storehouse, with the earnest wish that they may breathe new life into the home of a collector who appreciates the spirit of fine Japanese handwork, Showa retro design, and the timeless atmosphere of ancient Japan.

This pair of Iwami-yaki Yunomi is far more than just vintage tableware; it is a rare art piece where Japanese mythology, Showa history, and the traditional cross-regional craftsmanship connecting Shimane and Hiroshima converge in miraculous balance. When held in your hands, you can feel the substantial, comforting weight unique to the dense Iwami clay fired at 1300 degrees, along with a gentle warmth that fits naturally into the palm. The contrast between the rustic, earthy texture of the ceramic and the colorful, whimsical illustrations by Shunji Sonoyama allows these cups to blend seamlessly into modern sophisticated spaces, antique Japanese rooms, or modern rustic interiors. The subtle natural textures brought about by the passage of time and the charming irregularities unique to handmade pottery represent the very essence of the "wabi-sabi" philosophy, giving this pair a one-of-a-kind individuality. With every sip of tea, these vessels invite you into a luxurious moment of reflection, evoking the hope for the future that people held during the Showa era and the rich, mystical world of ancient Japanese myths. Infused with the passion of old-world artisans and historical romance, this pair of teacups will undoubtedly become a treasured companion, bringing profound richness and a timeless story into your daily life.

Condition & Notes:
Please note before purchasing.
This is a vintage or antique item sold as-is.
Due to age and long-term storage, natural signs of wear and aging may be present, including:
* small scratches or scuffs
* fading or discoloration
* glaze irregularities or imperfections
* crackling (crazing), kiln marks, or gold wear
* slight warping or age-related changes in wooden parts
Vintage and antique items may also carry natural storage-related scents from wood, paper, lacquer, smoke, or long-term preservation environments.
These characteristics are part of the individuality, historical character, and quiet beauty that vintage Japanese items carry.
They are not flaws, but the gentle traces of time.
We kindly ask for your understanding that vintage and antique items differ from newly manufactured products.
We do our best to show all notable details in the photos, but some small imperfections may not be fully visible.
Please review the dimensions carefully before purchasing, as photos may make items appear larger or smaller depending on display settings and shooting conditions.
Please note that colors may appear slightly different depending on lighting conditions and screen settings.
Only the items shown in the photos are included unless otherwise stated.
Display stands, decorative props, or accessories used for photography are not included unless explicitly stated.
Thank you for appreciating the character and spirit of these timeworn pieces.

Dimensions:

Height: 8.4 cm (3.31 in)
Base Diameter: 5.0 cm (1.97 in)
Rim Diameter: 6.9 × 6.9 cm (2.72 × 2.72 in)
Maximum Circumference: 22.0 cm (8.66 in)
Weight: 225 g (7.94 oz)

Shipping Information:
All items are shipped from Hiroshima, Japan.
Orders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment is confirmed.
For shipments to the United States, we use DHL Express or UPS with full tracking and insurance.
For all other destinations, orders are shipped via DHL Express, UPS, or Japan Post EMS depending on the destination and shipping conditions.
Each item is carefully packed with protective materials to ensure safe delivery.
Estimated delivery time is approximately 7–14 business days depending on customs procedures, local delivery conditions, weather disruptions, and customs inspections.
International Buyers – Duties, VAT & Taxes:
Import duties / customs duties are covered by us for all available shipping destinations.
However, VAT, GST, consumption taxes, customs processing fees, carrier handling fees, and other local import-related charges are not included in the item price unless otherwise stated.
These charges are the responsibility of the buyer.
Depending on your country’s regulations, these charges may be collected either by local customs authorities or by the shipping carrier upon delivery.
For many higher-value international orders, VAT/GST and import-related processing charges are commonly collected at the time of delivery.
Please note that free shipping or customs duty coverage does not mean that VAT/GST or local import-related charges are included.
Even when customs duties are covered by us, VAT/GST and local import-related charges may still be payable separately by the buyer upon delivery.
We do not mark items as gifts or under-declare their value for customs purposes.
Please ensure that your shipping address and contact information are accurate and complete.
If a package is returned due to an incorrect address, unpaid VAT/GST or import-related charges, refusal, or failed delivery, all return and reshipping costs are the buyer’s responsibility.
International deliveries may occasionally experience delays due to customs procedures or local postal conditions.

Damage During Shipping:
In the unlikely event that your item arrives damaged, please contact us within 10 days of delivery and provide clear photos of:
* the damaged item
* the outer shipping box
* the inside packaging condition
* the shipping label
Please keep all packaging materials and damaged items until the shipping carrier completes the investigation.
Minor imperfections consistent with the nature of vintage or antique items are not considered shipping damage.

Returns & Refunds:
All items are vintage or antique and sold as-is.
Due to the nature of vintage and antique items, we generally do not accept returns, cancellations, or refunds except where required by law or covered by shipping insurance.
Returns or refunds are not accepted for reasons such as:
* change of mind
* customs delays
* minor differences in condition
* color differences
* texture variations
* size impression differences
* natural signs of age and wear
However, if severe loss or damage during shipping is officially confirmed by the carrier’s insurance, we will respond within the scope of the insurance coverage.
For customers in the UK and EU, applicable consumer protection laws and cooling-off rights will take precedence where required by law.

Safety & Usage:
These items are decorative vintage or antique pieces intended for adult collectors.
They are not toys and are not suitable for direct food use.
Vintage ceramics may contain historical materials or glazes that do not meet modern food safety standards.
We cannot guarantee suitability for modern food, beverage, dishwasher, microwave, oven, or direct cooking use.
Please enjoy them as decorative objects that bring quiet beauty and history into your space.
Handle with care and avoid prolonged exposure to moisture, direct sunlight, or heat.

Liability Disclaimer:
We cannot be held responsible for any accidents, damage, allergic reactions, injury, loss, or issues resulting from the use, handling, aging, restoration, transportation, or storage of vintage or antique items.
All products are sold as decorative vintage collectibles, and customers are responsible for proper handling, display, usage, and storage.
By completing your purchase, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.

Additional Notes by Region:
■ United States
State taxes, such as Sales Tax, may be collected according to local regulations.
California Proposition 65:
Some vintage items may contain historical materials such as natural lacquer, pigments, metals, or antique finishes. This notice is provided for informational purposes only.
■ European Union (EU)
Our shop is not registered for IOSS or EU VAT collection.
Import VAT, customs processing fees, handling charges, or other import-related charges may be collected upon delivery according to local regulations.
These charges are the responsibility of the buyer.
■ United Kingdom
Our shop is not registered for UK VAT collection.
Import VAT and related charges may be collected upon delivery.
The buyer will be considered the importer of record for customs purposes.
■ Switzerland, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand
Import VAT/GST, customs processing fees, handling fees, carrier fees, or other import-related charges may apply according to local regulations.
For Taiwan:
Registration with the EZ WAY app may be required for customs clearance.
■ Hong Kong
Hong Kong currently does not generally impose VAT/GST on imported goods.

Contact Us:
If you have any questions regarding our items, shipping, usage, dimensions, or condition, please feel free to contact us before purchasing.
We’re happy to assist you and will do our best to respond as promptly as possible.
Thank you for considering a piece from our kura — each item carries a quiet story shaped by time in Japan.
This piece is part of our curated collection discovered in rural Japan.
On our official website, we share:
– the story of the kura (traditional Japanese storehouse) where this item was discovered
– background on how similar objects were once used in everyday life
– exclusive collections and pieces not listed elsewhere
We hope these objects will continue their quiet journey with you.