Vintage Kutani Ware Lidded Teacups | Set of 2 Japanese Yunomi | Matte Brown Gold Calligraphy | Mitsuyama Kiln Pottery | Traditional Tea Gift

The Story Behind This Piece:

Deep within the heavy-doored storehouse (kura) of a century-old traditional Japanese house (kominka) in the snowy northern mountains of Hiroshima Prefecture, these Kutani-yaki covered teacups were discovered.
Carefully preserved in a paulownia wood box, they have finally emerged from the shadows.

Crafted in the 1960s (the mid-Showa era), they belong to a time when Japan was rapidly modernizing, yet the spirit of "deliberate living" and "hospitality" remained deeply ingrained.
The original owner, a prominent local figure who supported regional education and culture, cherished these cups to warmly welcome guests during the harsh, cold winters.

The deep vermilion surface, adorned with elegant gold calligraphy of classical poetry, perfectly embodies the fusion of Japanese "wabi-sabi" and the opulent beauty of Kutani-yaki.

Kutani-yaki is a world-renowned style of Japanese overglaze porcelain from Ishikawa Prefecture.
Its most striking feature is the heavy overglaze painting in five colors—red, yellow, green, purple, and Prussian blue—applied over bold indigo outlines known as "Gosui." The "Kozan" mark on these pieces is a testament to the artisan's soul, reflecting a dedication to creating functional art for everyday life.

Once, these cups sat in traditional rooms, filled with fragrant green tea while the sounds of a crackling hearth filled the air.
As lifestyles shifted, they were eventually tucked away in the silence of the storehouse for decades.
Now, triggered by the restoration of the old estate, they have been awakened to bring warmth back to modern homes.

The meticulous handwork and the striking contrast between the jet-black lids and the crimson body offer a "Mingei" (folk art) value that mass-produced items can never replicate.
The subtle patina acquired over time represents not mere age, but a "cultivated beauty."

Whether as an accent in a modern interior or a vessel for special moments, these teacups carry the timeless heart of Japanese culture across generations.
We invite you to experience the warmth of old-world craftsmanship and the prestigious aesthetic of Kutani-yaki.

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:

■Body
Height: 6.3 cm (2.48 in)
Base diameter: 3.2 cm (1.26 in)
Rim diameter (front to back): 6.5 cm (2.56 in)
Rim diameter (left to right): 6.5 cm (2.56 in)
Maximum circumference: 22.0 cm (8.66 in)
Weight: 130 g

■Lid
Height: 1.6 cm (0.63 in)
Width: 7.0 cm (2.76 in)
Depth: 7.0 cm (2.76 in)
Weight: 5 g

Shipping Information:
All items are shipped from Hiroshima, Japan.
For orders to the United States, we use DHL Express or UPS, both with full tracking and insurance.
For all other destinations, shipments are made via DHL Express, UPS, or Japan Post EMS, depending on the country and shipping conditions.
Each item is carefully packed with protective materials to ensure it arrives safely.
Orders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment is confirmed.
Estimated delivery time is approximately 7–14 business days, depending on the destination and customs procedures.

Damage During Shipping – Important Notice
In the unlikely event that your item arrives damaged,
please contact us within 10 days of delivery.
To help us accurately understand the condition of the damage,
we kindly ask you to provide the following photos:
・Clear photos showing the condition of the damaged item
・Photos clearly showing the condition of the outer packaging (shipping box)
・Photos showing the inside of the box, including the packing condition
(such as the presence and placement of cushioning materials)
・Photos of all items included in the shipment
・A clear photo of the shipping label on the box
Please note that all items and packaging materials must be kept and stored
until permission is given by the shipping carrier to dispose of them.
This includes:
・The damaged item
・The outer shipping box
・All cushioning and packing materials
・Any other items included in the same shipment
Disposal of any of these items before carrier approval
may affect our ability to investigate the damage properly.
Please understand that minor imperfections consistent with the nature of vintage items
are not considered shipping damage.

International buyers: Please note!!!
To ensure a smooth and pleasant transaction, please read the following notes carefully before purchasing.

1.Global Policy
Customs, Import Fees, and International Shipping:
Import duties, customs clearance fees, and local or state taxes (such as Sales Tax) are not included in the item price or shipping cost.
These charges are calculated according to the regulations of each country’s customs authority and are the responsibility of the buyer.
Carriers such as DHL, UPS, or Japan Post EMS may collect these fees directly upon delivery. In accordance with international law, we do not under-declare item values or mark shipments as gifts.
Please ensure that your shipping address is accurate and complete.
If a package is returned due to an incorrect address, incomplete information, unpaid import fees, or delivery refusal,
all costs related to the return and reshipment will be the responsibility of the buyer.
International deliveries may experience delays due to customs inspections or local postal conditions.
We do not offer domestic shipping within Japan.
Orders placed with a Japanese domestic address will be canceled and refunded.
If you wish to send an item as a gift to someone in Japan, please contact us before placing your order.
Returns & Refunds (No-Refund Policy):
All items are vintage or antique and are sold as is.

We do not accept returns, cancellations, or refunds for any reason.
(Examples: change of mind, customs delays, slight differences in color or condition.) However, if a loss or severe damage during shipping is officially confirmed by the carrier’s insurance, we will respond within the scope of that insurance.
Please purchase only after understanding and agreeing to these terms.
Note: The 14-day right of withdrawal for France and the UK, based on consumer protection laws, takes precedence over this policy.
Return & Reshipping Costs:
If a package is returned due to an incorrect or incomplete address, refusal, or unpaid import fees,all return and reshipping costs are the buyer’s responsibility.
Reshipment will be arranged after the additional payment is confirmed.
Even if you cancel after a return, shipping and handling fees are non-refundable.
Please ensure your address and contact information are accurate and that you are available to receive the package.
Safety & Usage:
These items are decorative vintage or antique pieces intended for adult collectors.
They are not toys. Keep out of reach of children.
They are not suitable for food use.
Due to the natural aging of materials and finishes, do not use them for direct contact with food (e.g., plates or cutlery).
Please enjoy them as decorative pieces that bring quiet beauty to your space.
Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture or heat, and handle with care.
Liability Disclaimer:
We cannot be held responsible for any accidents, damage, or injury resulting from the use or handling of vintage or antique items.
All products are sold as decorative collectibles, and customers are responsible for proper and safe use and storage.
By completing your purchase, you are deemed to have agreed to these terms.

2. Country-Specific Information
・For Customers in the United States
Shipping:
Orders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment is confirmed.
Shipments are made via DHL Express or UPS (with tracking and insurance).
Import Duties & State Taxes:
Import duties, customs clearance fees, and state taxes (Sales Tax) are not included in the item price or shipping cost.
These charges are calculated under each state’s regulations and are the buyer’s responsibility.
In some cases, DHL or UPS may collect import duties and customs fees upon delivery. We cannot mark items as gifts or under-declare their value for customs purposes.
California Proposition 65 Notice:
Some vintage or antique items may contain trace amounts of natural lacquer, metals, or pigments that fall under California Proposition 65.
These are historical materials, and the risk under normal use is considered extremely low. This notice is provided for your information; we cannot be responsible for any effects arising from normal use.

・For Customers in Hong Kong
Shipping:
Orders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment is confirmed. Shipments are made via DHL Express, UPS, or Japan Post EMS.
Duties & Taxes:
As Hong Kong is a free port, no customs duties or sales tax (VAT/GST) will be charged.

・For Customers in Taiwan
Shipping:
Orders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment is confirmed. Shipments are made via DHL Express, UPS, or Japan Post EMS.
Duties & EZ WAY App:
For orders over NT$2,000, import duties and a 5% business tax will apply.
These charges are determined by Taiwan Customs and are the buyer’s responsibility. For customs clearance, registration with the EZ WAY app is required.
Your registered name and phone number must match the shipping information.

・For Customers in Singapore
Shipping:
Orders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment is confirmed. Shipments are made via DHL Express, UPS, or Japan Post EMS.
Duties & Taxes:
For orders over S$400, 9% GST and a small handling fee may apply.
These charges are determined by Singapore Customs and are the buyer’s responsibility.

・For Customers in Switzerland
Shipping:
Orders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment confirmation.
Shipments are made via DHL Express, UPS, or Japan Post EMS.
VAT & Duties: Upon import, Swiss Customs may charge VAT and handling or customs fees.
These costs are the responsibility of the buyer and are not included in the item price or shipping cost.
If the item value is CHF 150 or less and the purpose is personal use or gifting,
it may qualify for exemption, depending on customs’ decision.

・For Customers in the United Kingdom
Shipping:
Orders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment confirmation.
Shipments are made via DHL Express, UPS, or Japan Post EMS.
Our shop is not registered for UK VAT,
so VAT is not included in the item price or shipping cost.
Upon arrival in the UK, HMRC may charge import VAT and handling fees.
These costs are the responsibility of the buyer and are typically collected by DHL, UPS, or another courier.
Right of Withdrawal (Cooling-Off Period):
Under the UK Consumer Contracts Regulations, you have the right to cancel or return your order
within 14 days from the date you receive the item.
If you wish to return an item, please contact us by email within 14 days.
Return shipping is the buyer’s responsibility.
After we receive and inspect the item, we will refund the item price (excluding shipping, duties, and fees).
Items that are used, damaged, or returned in a different condition are not eligible for return.

・For Customers in France
Shipping:
Orders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment confirmation.
Shipments are made via DHL Express, UPS, or Japan Post EMS.
As the shop is not registered for EU or French VAT,
VAT (TVA) is not included in the item price or shipping cost.
When your order arrives in France, import VAT (TVA), customs duties, and handling fees may be charged by French Customs or the courier (DHL, UPS, etc.).
These costs are the responsibility of the buyer.
The total amount varies depending on item value, weight, and destination.
Right of Withdrawal (Droit de rétractation):
Under the EU Consumer Rights Directive, you have the right to cancel or return your order within 14 days from the date of receipt.
Please contact us by email within 14 days to request a return.
Return shipping is the buyer’s responsibility.
After inspection, we will refund the item price (excluding shipping, duties, and return postage).
Items that are used, damaged, or returned in a different condition are not eligible for return.

Contact Us:
If you have any questions about our products, descriptions, specifications, or usage, 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 one carries a quiet story we hope you’ll enjoy.