{"title":"Showa Post-war Vintage (1945–1989)","description":"\u003cp\u003ePost-war Showa (1945–1989) Japanese vintage ceramics — the period of Japan's ceramic renaissance, when masters such as Hamada Shōji, Tomimoto Kenkichi, and Living National Treasure designations gave the craft new global standing. Post-war Showa pieces span the Mingei tradition, modernist studio works, and refined production from major kilns.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"toida-takatsugu-kohiki-sencha-yunomi-vintage","title":"Toida Takatsugu Kohiki Sencha Yunomi — Vintage Japanese Tea Cup with Signed Tomobako","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKohiki sencha-yunomi tea cup, hand-thrown by Toida Takatsugu (筧田孝嗣) at Jintsū-kama in Toyama Prefecture, Japan. Signed paulownia tomobako and printed tōreki (artist biography card) included. Likely produced in the late 1980s — vintage, not antique.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat this is\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA small cylindrical tea cup in the kohiki (粉引) tradition: a coat of white slip applied over iron-rich red clay, then sealed under a soft, slightly crackled transparent glaze. Where the slip thins, the dark clay shows through in muted blue-grey and warm earth tones. The unglazed foot reveals the raw red body — the signature kohiki \"reveal\".\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 7.3 cm tall × 5.2 cm at the mouth (approximately 120 mL), this is a sencha-yunomi — sized for premium green teas (sencha, gyokuro, hojicha) where a small portion is part of the brewing ritual, not a casual everyday large pour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eForm\u003c\/strong\u003e: sencha-yunomi (small yunomi, premium-tea size)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTechnique\u003c\/strong\u003e: kohiki (white slip on stoneware) — one of the artist's three documented specialties (粉引・灰釉・柿釉)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEra\u003c\/strong\u003e: Showa late period, c. late 1980s (tōreki dated through 昭和63 \/ 1988)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMade by\u003c\/strong\u003e Toida Takatsugu \/ Jintsū-kama in Toyama Prefecture, Japan, curated by ZenKiln\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat makes this piece notable\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToida Takatsugu (b. 1943, Toyama-shi Tsukahara) trained under two influential figures in postwar Japanese ceramics:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eYoshida Kōzō\u003c\/strong\u003e (art critic) — pottery instruction from 1970\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eShimizu Uichi\u003c\/strong\u003e — pottery instruction from 1978 in Kyoto. Shimizu Uichi was designated a Living National Treasure (Ningen Kokuhō) for iron-glaze stoneware in 1985.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSelected highlights from his recorded chronology (source: tōreki):\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1980\u003c\/strong\u003e — first selection, Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition; consecutively selected 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1980\u003c\/strong\u003e — full member, Japan Kogei Association\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1981\u003c\/strong\u003e — Mainichi Newspaper Award, 6th Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition; large kohiki and ash-glaze vessels acquired by Toyama Prefecture and Toyama City Local History Museum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1984\u003c\/strong\u003e — Toyama Prefecture presented his large ceramic vessel to former US President Jimmy Carter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1986\u003c\/strong\u003e — large vessel presented to Prince Takamado; ash-glaze and kohiki flower vessels presented to the Brazilian and Canadian ambassadors\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1988\u003c\/strong\u003e — pieces presented to four Imperial households (Takamatsu, Hitachi, Mikasa, Takamado)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe piece you receive is signed at three points: the tomobako lid calligraphy \"粉引 湯くみ 孝嗣\" with red seal, the printed tōreki card, and the artist's red square stamp on the box. Three-point provenance closure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDimensions (this exact hand-thrown piece, measured)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight\u003c\/strong\u003e: 7.3 cm (2.9\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMouth diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e: 5.2 cm (2.0\") external\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFoot diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e: 4.5 cm (1.8\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCapacity\u003c\/strong\u003e: approximately 120 mL (≈ 4 fl oz) when filled to ~1 cm below the rim — sencha-yunomi class, sized for premium green tea\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTomobako (signed paulownia kiribako)\u003c\/strong\u003e: 10.4 × 7.4 cm (4.1\" × 2.9\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause each piece is hand-thrown, dimensions vary slightly between examples in the same artist's line. The numbers above are this exact piece, measured.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow to use \/ who it's for\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePremium green tea (sencha, gyokuro, hojicha) where small portions are part of the ritual — the slip surface deepens with use (yō-no-bi: beauty grown through use)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA tea-ceremony chair-meeting (椅子点前) accent piece\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA collector's reference example of post-1970s kohiki by a documented Japan Kogei Association member\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA father's day or retirement gift for a tea person, art-pottery collector, or anyone with a Shimizu Uichi \/ Living National Treasure interest\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCondition\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent vintage condition. The fine iron freckles, slip drip patterns, soft-grey transitions, and unglazed foot reveal are all intentional features of kohiki — not flaws. No chips, no hairlines visible. Buyer is encouraged to read the supplied photographs carefully — what looks like a \"spot\" is almost certainly a fired iron point, which is the technique working as intended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCare\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHand-wash with warm water and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive sponges.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMicrowave \/ dishwasher safety not certified by the artist; we recommend hand-wash only for any signed studio piece of this age.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf the slip absorbs tea over years, that is normal and considered desirable in kohiki — it is the cup's record of being used.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat you receive\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 × kohiki sencha-yunomi (the cup)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 × signed paulownia tomobako (kiribako) with brush calligraphy + red seal\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 × printed tōreki (artist biography card)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eZenKiln care card\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout ZenKiln\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Japan-based curator connecting international collectors with Japan's artisan ceramic tradition. We work closely with the kilns, workshops, and makers featured in our shop — each one disclosed in our About section — and hand-pack every piece in Japan for safe delivery worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eShipping\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShips from Japan within 1–3 business days, hand-packed with the original tomobako. International tracking included. Buyers outside Japan are responsible for any local customs duties.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ZenKiln","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47642124255462,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0779\/5392\/5350\/files\/6a0f48436f03bf48e8c7f28f9f150b4c_42227b69-ba67-4460-9c27-af6c9067c35c.png?v=1780215679"},{"product_id":"vintage-fukagawa-seiji-kurenai-sake-set-1977","title":"Vintage 1977 Fukagawa Seiji Kurenai Sake Set — 2 Tokkuri \u0026 5 Ochoko, Arita Porcelain","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA vintage 1977 sake set by Fukagawa Seiji — the Arita house historically recognized as a supplier to the Japanese Imperial Household since 1910. The \"Kurenai\" (くれない \/ 紅) pattern carries five-color autumn maple leaves in the maker's signature Iro-e Saiji overglaze technique. Sold complete with original maker box, brand history pamphlet, original Marushin (Tokushima) retail voucher dated to 1977, and Marushin certification sticker — the full original-retail provenance.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat's in the set (7 pieces total)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e2 × tokkuri (徳利)\u003c\/strong\u003e sake bottles — height 13.5 cm (5.3\"), base 5 cm (2.0\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e5 × ochoko (お猪口)\u003c\/strong\u003e sake cups — height 5.5 cm (2.2\"), mouth 4 cm (1.6\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne tokkuri carries an additional gold-script painter's signature 「圭史」 (Keishi) on the foot, alongside the standard Fukagawa Seiji Mt. Fuji + flowing-water (富士流水) mark and the maker's stamp 「深川製」. The second tokkuri carries the standard mark only. All five ochoko carry the standard mark.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Kurenai (くれない) pattern\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Kurenai\" — Japanese for crimson — is Fukagawa Seiji's official name for this autumn maple-leaf pattern. Each leaf is rendered in pointillistic Iro-e Saiji enamel, layered in five colors:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVermilion red (紺色) — the late-autumn ripeness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCobalt blue (藍) — the receding sky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSage green (萌葱) — leaves still in transition\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGold (金) — caught light, the moment of brilliance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSoft red lacquer (朱) — the supporting stems and twigs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe leaves cluster on the upper shoulders of each piece in a \"drift\" composition — the visual logic of leaves carried by autumn wind, settling on a still surface. Gold rims complete each cup and bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout the maker — Fukagawa Seiji\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFukagawa Seiji (深川製磁) was founded in 1894 in Arita, Saga, by Fukagawa Tadatsugu, a descendant of the six-generation Imari-Arita Fukagawa pottery clan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1900\u003c\/strong\u003e — Grand Prix (highest gold medal) at the Paris Exposition Universelle for Iro-e Saiji vases\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1910\u003c\/strong\u003e — Officially designated by the Japanese Imperial Household Ministry (宮内省御用達（1910 historical record）), with historical documentation through Taishō, Shōwa, Heisei, and Reiwa eras\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIro-e Saiji\u003c\/strong\u003e — the maker's signature technique developed by Fukagawa Tadatsugu: overglaze enamels fused into the porcelain at high temperature in a single firing; colours integrated into the glaze rather than sitting on top of it\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis particular set was retailed in 1977 by \u003cstrong\u003eMarushin (丸新)\u003c\/strong\u003e, a Tokushima department store, for ¥20,000 — a substantial gift-tier price at that time, equivalent in purchasing power to an upper-mid-range department-store gift today. The original Marushin retail voucher is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eProvenance (three independent confirmations)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaker mark\u003c\/strong\u003e: Fukagawa Seiji Mt. Fuji + 流水 + 「深川製」 underglaze cobalt mark on every piece\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePainter's signature\u003c\/strong\u003e: gold-script 「圭史」 on one tokkuri — a Fukagawa workshop painter signature, present on the lead bottle of the pair\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOriginal retail receipt\u003c\/strong\u003e: Marushin (丸新, Tokushima) printed retail voucher with original ¥20,000 retail price and Marushin certification sticker — establishes 1977 retail-date provenance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDimensions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTokkuri (sake bottle)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeight: 13.5 cm (5.3\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFoot diameter: 5.0 cm (2.0\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOchoko (sake cup)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeight: 5.5 cm (2.2\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMouth diameter: 4.0 cm (1.6\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow to use \/ who it's for\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAutumn dinners, harvest moon (Tsukimi) gatherings, year-end celebrations — the Kurenai pattern is seasonally tied to October–November but reads as warm-tone tableware year-round\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWedding gift, anniversary gift, or housewarming for collectors of fine Japanese porcelain — particularly anyone with a Fukagawa Seiji or historical Imperial Household designation interest\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA reference example of late-Showa Iro-e Saiji autumn-leaf composition, with documented original-retail provenance — a strong piece for serious collectors of Japanese ceramics history\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor the careful host: the 2-tokkuri configuration lets you serve two sakes side-by-side (e.g., one warm, one chilled, or two contrasting brews)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCondition\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent vintage condition. The set appears unused. All gold rims are intact and unworn. The Iro-e Saiji enamel pattern is bright and complete on every piece. The painter's signature on the lead tokkuri is clean and unsmudged. The original maker box has minor age-related softening at corners, consistent with 1977 storage; the retail voucher is intact and legible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCare\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHand-wash with warm water and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid abrasive cleaners or nylon scrubbers (they will scratch the gold rim and Iro-e Saiji surface).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo microwave (gold rim).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo oven.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHand-wash recommended over dishwasher for any signed vintage piece of this age — extended dishwasher cycles will eventually wear the painted enamel.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAvoid sudden temperature shock when serving warm sake — pre-warm the tokkuri gradually with warm (not hot) water before adding heated sake.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat you receive\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 × Fukagawa Seiji Kurenai tokkuri (one with 「圭史」 painter signature, one with standard mark only)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 × Fukagawa Seiji Kurenai ochoko\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 × original Fukagawa Seiji presentation box (0700-190 \/ くれない 酒器揃)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 × printed Fukagawa Seiji brand history pamphlet (Japanese)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 × original Marushin (丸新, Tokushima) retail voucher dated to 1977 (¥20,000)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 × original Marushin certification sticker\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eZenKiln care card (English translation of key care points)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout ZenKiln\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Japan-based curator connecting international collectors with Japan's artisan ceramic tradition. We work closely with the kilns, workshops, and makers featured in our shop — each one disclosed in our About section — and hand-pack every piece in Japan for safe delivery worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eShipping\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShips from Japan within 1–3 business days, hand-packed inside the original 1977 maker box plus exterior cushioning for international transit. International tracking included. Buyers outside Japan are responsible for any local customs duties or taxes.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ZenKiln","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":47643485896934,"sku":"SAK-ARI-SHL-00003","price":368.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0779\/5392\/5350\/files\/6a0f48436f03bf48e8c7f28f9f150b4c_55abe1d1-9c3a-48a6-98fc-b6e44b182f57.png?v=1780209082"},{"product_id":"vintage-nambu-satetsu-kyusu-kiyosue-sakura","title":"Vintage Nambu Satetsu Kyusu by Kiyosue — Sakura Cast Iron Teapot, Morioka, Signed Tomobako","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA vintage sand-iron kyusu (急須) by Kiyosue (清末) at the Shōkōdō house in Morioka, Iwate — Japan's four-century heritage center for cast-iron tea ware. Sold complete with signed paulownia tomobako, original Nambu Tekki Cooperative authenticity sticker, brass strainer, and the maker's printed leaflet.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat this is\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA small Nambu satetsu (砂鉄, sand iron) kyusu — the design name from the maker is \"Manōsakukyūro\" (萬桜咲久露), \"myriad cherry blossoms with morning dew\". The upper half of the body is covered in deeply-cast cherry and plum blossom relief, the lower half left in a hammered Nambu ground. The lid carries matching blossom relief with a bud-shaped finial. The handle is twist-bound iron with a central knot at the apex.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eForm\u003c\/strong\u003e: kyusu (小型急須 \/ small Japanese teapot for personal use)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaterial\u003c\/strong\u003e: satetsu (砂鉄) — sand iron, the premium Nambu grade\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDesign\u003c\/strong\u003e: Manōsakukyūro 萬桜咲久露 (multi-layer plum\/cherry blossom)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEra\u003c\/strong\u003e: Showa post-war (estimated 1965–1980)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMade by\u003c\/strong\u003e 合名会社 照亦製作所 (Shōeki Seisakujo) under the 照光堂 (Shōkōdō) brand in Iwate Prefecture, Japan, curated by ZenKiln\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout Nambu Tekki\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNambu Tekki (南部鉄器) is the traditional cast iron ware of Morioka (盛岡), in northern Japan's Iwate Prefecture. The craft has been continuously practiced for more than four hundred years, with iron sand from the local mountains historically used as the raw material. Nambu pieces are recognized for their characteristic granular surface texture, slow heat retention, and the way the surface develops a soft patina with regular use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe cooperative sticker on this piece — 「南部鉄器協同組合 \/ 本場盛岡」 — certifies it as an authentic Morioka product, made by a workshop in the recognized regional cooperative.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout satetsu (砂鉄)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe kettle is made of satetsu — literally \"sand iron\" — the premium grade of Nambu material gathered from the magnetite-rich black sand deposits of the Kitakami highlands. Compared with ordinary cast iron, satetsu pieces are lighter for the same size, have a denser grain, and are prized by serious tea practitioners. The maker's leaflet specifically identifies this piece as a 「南部砂鉄急須」.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout the maker\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe piece is signed by the maker on the wooden box: brush calligraphy 「清末作」 (made by Kiyosue) with a matching red seal 「清末」. Kiyosue worked at 合名会社 照亦製作所 (Shōeki Seisakujo Limited Partnership), the workshop under the heritage brand 照光堂 (Shōkōdō) in Morioka. The printed leaflet inside the box is published by the workshop itself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDimensions (this exact piece, measured)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTotal height with handle raised\u003c\/strong\u003e: 12.5 cm (4.9\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBody height with handle folded down\u003c\/strong\u003e: 6.0 cm (2.4\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBody maximum width\u003c\/strong\u003e: 9.0 cm (3.5\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMouth diameter (lid opening)\u003c\/strong\u003e: 7.0 cm (2.8\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFoot diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e: 5.0 cm (2.0\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWeight (kettle only)\u003c\/strong\u003e: 500 g (17.6 oz \/ 1.1 lb)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWeight with paulownia box\u003c\/strong\u003e: 700 g (24.7 oz \/ 1.5 lb)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTomobako\u003c\/strong\u003e: 14.5 × 14.5 × 11 cm (5.7\" × 5.7\" × 4.3\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBrewing capacity\u003c\/strong\u003e: approximately 180–220 mL when filled to brim (sized for personal use or premium-tea ritual)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat you receive\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e1 × Nambu satetsu kyusu (the iron kettle with lid)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e1 × brass tea strainer (perforated, with brass-gold finish — sits inside the kettle to filter loose tea leaves)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e1 × signed paulownia tomobako (kiribako) with brush calligraphy + red seal on the inside lid\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e1 × original 「南部砂鉄急須の栞」 printed leaflet (the maker's product information, Japanese)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e1 × 「南部鉄器協同組合 \/ 本場盛岡」 authenticity sticker\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eZenKiln care card (English care instructions)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow to use \/ who it's for\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eBrewing high-grade green teas (gyokuro, sencha, hojicha) where small yield + slow heat retention bring out depth in the leaves\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eTea ceremony or tea-table accent piece — collectors of Nambu tekki particularly value pre-1980 satetsu work\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eA father's day, retirement, or anniversary gift for someone with an interest in Japanese craft history or tea culture\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCondition\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent vintage condition. The blossom relief is crisp, the hammered ground below is unworn, and the brass-coated interior and strainer are clean. The exterior shows the soft natural patina of cared-for satetsu — this is a feature of the material, not a flaw. The tomobako shows normal age-softening at corners; the seal and brush signature are clean and legible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCare\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eNever put in dishwasher, microwave, or oven.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eAfter each use, empty the kettle, rinse with hot water (not soap), and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eAvoid leaving water inside for extended periods — moisture is the main cause of iron rust.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eIf a thin patina or light surface tarnish develops, the maker's leaflet recommends gentle polishing with charcoal powder once a week for the natural silver-grey luster characteristic of satetsu.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eIf you find any cracks or damage, discontinue use immediately for safety.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout ZenKiln\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA Japan-based curator connecting international collectors with Japan's artisan ceramic and metalwork tradition. We work closely with the kilns, workshops, and makers featured in our shop — each one disclosed in our About section — and hand-pack every piece in Japan for safe delivery worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReference conversions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e12.5 cm = 4.9\" · 9.0 cm = 3.5\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e7.0 cm = 2.8\" · 5.0 cm = 2.0\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e500 g ≈ 1.1 lb · 700 g ≈ 1.5 lb\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e200 mL ≈ 6.8 fl oz\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eShipping\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eShips from Japan within 1–3 business days, hand-packed inside the original signed tomobako with exterior cushioning for international transit. International tracking included. Buyers outside Japan are responsible for any local customs duties.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ZenKiln","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47647693865190,"sku":"TEA-XXX-SHM-00004","price":628.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0779\/5392\/5350\/files\/6a0f48436f03bf48e8c7f28f9f150b4c_439b736c-7a04-490a-804a-953ef879ae43.png?v=1780216186"},{"product_id":"fukagawa-seiji-celadon-koro-incense-burner","title":"Vintage 1977 Fukagawa Seiji Celadon Incense Burner Koro — Arita Porcelain with Tomobako","description":"\u003cp\u003eA \u003cstrong\u003e1977 (昭和52年 \/ Shōwa 52)\u003c\/strong\u003e celadon incense burner (青磁香炉) by \u003cstrong\u003e深川製磁\u003c\/strong\u003e — Fukagawa Seiji of Arita, Saga Prefecture — kept whole with its original kiribako (paulownia wood box), the maker's branch-store pamphlet, and the green decorative-use care card. The translucent jade-green seiji glaze sits over a porcelain body in the three-footed kōro form, with a reticulated dome cover (sukashibori) that lets a single coil of incense thread its smoke upward.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eForm\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e香炉 (kōro) — lidded three-footed incense burner with reticulated cover\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMaterial\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePorcelain (磁器) with celadon (青磁 \/ seiji) monochrome glaze\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eProduction year\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1977 (昭和52年 \/ Shōwa 52) — 49-year-old vintage\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eBody diameter\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e~12 cm (4.7\")\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eBody + lid height\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e~9 cm (3.5\")\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTomobako (paulownia wood box)\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e~14 cm × 14 cm × 13.2 cm (5.5\" × 5.5\" × 5.2\"); brush-calligraphy 香炉 on lid + red 深川製 maker seal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFoot mark\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e富士山 (Fuji-yama) blue underglaze trademark — the Fukagawa Seiji house mark adopted in 1894 (Meiji 27)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eIncluded pamphlets\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e(1) navy IMPERIAL TASTE branch-store list (Fukagawa head office in Arita + 11 branches), (2) white Fukagawa Seiji company-history hakogaki, (3) green 「ご使用上の注意」 care card\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eUse\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eincense altar piece — coil incense, stick incense (with a separate riser), or as a kōdō appreciation vessel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCondition\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003evintage 1977 estate piece — please request additional photos of any area before purchase\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMade by\u003c\/strong\u003e 深川製磁 (Fukagawa Seiji) \/ Arita-yaki in Saga Prefecture, Japan, curated by ZenKiln\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout Fukagawa Seiji (depth-verified context)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFukagawa Seiji traces its lineage to the Fukagawa family's seventeenth-century role in the Nabeshima clan's Arita porcelain industry. The modern company was organised as Fukagawa Seiji Co., Ltd. in 1894 (Meiji 27), at which point it adopted the Mt. Fuji (富士山) underglaze mark — the same blue Fuji you'll see on the foot of this piece. The white company-history pamphlet enclosed with this kōro narrates the firm's Paris Exposition awards (1900) and its 1910 (Meiji 43) historical designation as a purveyor to the Imperial Household Agency (宮内庁御用達（historical record）). The Fukagawa celadon line is one of the house specialties — fired at high temperature for the dense, translucent jade glaze the company calls \"the gloss of a jewel.\" This particular piece was produced in 1977 (昭和52年), when Fukagawa's Arita workshop was operating across its 11-branch retail network listed on the navy pamphlet enclosed with the kiribako.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eUse \u0026amp; care\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePer the enclosed green maker care card (「ご使用上の注意」), this piece is fired for decorative purposes (装飾を目的に焼造) and is not intended for use as tableware. Wipe gently with a soft sponge or cloth; do not scrub with abrasive cleansers or scouring pads. Avoid sudden temperature shifts or mechanical shock — porcelain can crack. The reticulated cover allows smoke to escape and should not be sealed or weighted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGifting \u0026amp; presentation\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe original kiribako is dovetail-jointed and labelled by the maker, making this a presentation-ready piece for a collector of Japanese ceramics, a tea-room or meditation-altar curator, or a recipient marking a milestone — Father's Day, a retirement, a housewarming, or a tea-friendship anniversary. We hand-pack the tomobako inside a second protective outer box for international shipping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eShipping \u0026amp; returns (antique line)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a one-of-one estate piece. We do not accept returns on antique-line listings; all condition details and the maker's documentation are disclosed above and in the photos. Please ask any questions before purchase — we are happy to send additional photos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eReference conversions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12 cm ≈ 4.7\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9 cm ≈ 3.5\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e14 cm ≈ 5.5\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e13.2 cm ≈ 5.2\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout ZenKiln\u003c\/strong\u003e — A Japan-based curator connecting international collectors with Japan's artisan ceramic tradition. We work closely with the kilns, workshops, and makers featured in our shop — each one disclosed in our About section — and hand-pack every piece in Japan for safe delivery worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📦 Ships from Japan, hand-packed for safe delivery.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ZenKiln","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47649919008998,"sku":"ZK-KORO-FKG-001","price":180.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0779\/5392\/5350\/files\/6a0f48436f03bf48e8c7f28f9f150b4c_20846bb4-34c4-432e-9091-9db38e0b4f2a.png?v=1780209238"},{"product_id":"vintage-1975-koransha-phalaenopsis-orchid-plate-set-of-5-arita-yaki","title":"Vintage 1975 Kōransha Phalaenopsis Plate Set of 5 — Japanese Arita-yaki Porcelain Mid-Plates","description":"\u003cp\u003eA 1975 (昭和50年 \/ Shōwa 50) set of five Koransha (香蘭社) phalaenopsis-orchid plates — hand-finished porcelain mid-plates with a soft mint-celadon ground sweeping across each plate and meeting a clean white field, where the orchids bloom. Originally retailed at \u003cstrong\u003e¥50,000 JPY\u003c\/strong\u003e through Takashimaya Kyoto Store's 6F tableware floor in 1975 — a substantial outlay at a time when a graduate's monthly starting salary was around ¥85,000–90,000. The set comes with its full original presentation: the Koransha gift box, the bilingual maker hakogaki, the Koransha green logo card, and the Takashimaya お願い courtesy card.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eForm: 中皿 (chū-zara \/ mid-plate) — flat coupe-rim plate, 5-piece presentation set (五客揃)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eMaterial: high-fired white porcelain (磁器) with hand-finished overglaze decoration\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003ePattern: 胡蝶蘭 (kochōran) — phalaenopsis \/ moth orchid, two-bloom + bud composition with yellow-green leaves and pink-red labellum detail\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eProduction year: 1975 (昭和50年 \/ Shōwa 50) — 51-year-old vintage\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eOriginal retail (1975 Takashimaya Kyoto Store): ¥50,000 JPY\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eDiameter: ~16.7 cm (6.6\") per plate\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eHeight (rim profile): ~1.8 cm (0.7\") per plate\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eBox: original Koransha gift box ~35.9 × 18.5 × 5 cm (14.1\" × 7.3\" × 2.0\"), with bar-code label \u003ccode\u003e胡蝶蘭・中皿 W9104-JCS\u003c\/code\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eFoot mark: green underglaze 香蘭社 (Koransha) mark with the orchid emblem, on the underside of every plate\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eIncluded paper accessories: (1) bilingual Koransha \"300 YEARS OF KORAN-SHA \/ 香蘭社のあゆみ\" hakogaki pamphlet (2) Koransha green logo card with the orchid emblem (3) Takashimaya 京都店 お願い courtesy card from the 6F tableware floor\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eMade by 香蘭社 (Koransha) \/ Arita-yaki in Saga Prefecture, Japan, curated by ZenKiln\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout Koransha (hakogaki-cited context)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKoransha (香蘭社, \"Orchid Group\") traces its lineage to the eighth-generation Fukagawa potters of Arita, whose family had been firing porcelain in Saga for some three hundred years when Meiji-era restructuring opened the way for them to organize as an independent company in the 1870s. The bilingual hakogaki enclosed with this set narrates the early international recognition — the Grand Prix at the 1878 Paris International Exhibition, an honor at the United States 1876 exhibition, the Gold Medal at the 1900 Paris Exposition — and historically documented commissions placed with Koransha by the Imperial Household of Japan. The Koran-sha style was built by blending three of Japan's defining porcelain traditions, Old Imari, Nabeshima, and Kakiemon, into a single contemporary vocabulary. The phalaenopsis pattern in this set is one of the company's enduring botanical designs, named for the moth-orchid that takes its name in Japanese, 胡蝶蘭 (kochōran), from the resemblance to a butterfly in flight. By 1975, when this particular set was retailed through Takashimaya Kyoto Store's 6F tableware floor at ¥50,000, Koransha's pattern range had become a fixed reference within Japanese department-store gift culture — the 5-piece (五客揃) format was the traditional milestone-celebration gift unit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA mid-plate (中皿) at 16.7 cm sits squarely in the dessert \/ wagashi \/ appetizer \/ canapé band. Per the Koransha care card included with this set: hand-wash with mild detergent and a soft cloth or sponge; metal utensils and abrasive cleansers can scratch the porcelain surface; oven-use is restricted to items specifically marked as oven-ware (this plate is not so marked); avoid sudden temperature change.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eGifting \u0026amp; Presentation\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 五客揃 (5-piece set) is Japan's standard hospitality-and-gift presentation unit — one plate per guest, ready for a dinner party, a tea-gathering wagashi course, or a milestone celebration. Phalaenopsis is the most prestigious gift-flower in modern Japan, associated with elegance and congratulations; the pattern's traditional pairings are wedding gifts, anniversary gifts, housewarming, retirement, and Father's Day. The full original Koransha + Takashimaya presentation makes this a ready-to-give heritage set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eShipping \u0026amp; Returns (Antique Line)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a one-of-one estate set. We do not accept returns on antique-line listings; all condition details and the maker's documentation are disclosed above and in the photos. Please ask any questions before purchase — we are happy to send additional photos of any plate or paper accessory.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout ZenKiln\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Japan-based curator connecting international collectors with Japan's artisan ceramic tradition. We work closely with the kilns, workshops, and makers featured in our shop — each one disclosed in our About section — and hand-pack every piece in Japan for safe delivery worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📦 Ships from Japan, hand-packed for safe delivery.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ZenKiln","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47658955800806,"sku":"ZK-PLATE-KOR-001","price":330.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0779\/5392\/5350\/files\/6a0f48436f03bf48e8c7f28f9f150b4c_2ee1689b-65dd-42cc-a818-ecd0dd22047b.png?v=1780216833"},{"product_id":"vintage-1980-kikumon-mino-yaki-cup-saucer-pair-koho","title":"Vintage 1980 Japanese Kikumon Chrysanthemum Crest Mino-yaki Cup \u0026 Saucer Pair, Cobalt Gold","description":"\u003cp\u003eA 1980 (昭和55年 \/ Shōwa 55) Mino-yaki (美濃焼) cup-and-saucer pair set in the \u003cstrong\u003e菊紋入り (kikumon-iri \/ \"with chrysanthemum-crest inset\") category\u003c\/strong\u003e — two small footed porcelain cups with two matching saucers, each piece carrying a deep cobalt-blue band at the rim, a delicate gold-pierced lace-band beside it, and a centered 16-petal gold kiku (chrysanthemum) crest. Originally retailed at \u003cstrong\u003e¥60,000 JPY\u003c\/strong\u003e in 1980 — a substantial outlay aligned with this premium 菊紋入り category, at a time when a graduate's monthly starting salary was around ¥110,000.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eForm: 高台形コーヒーカップ・ソーサー二客揃 (pedestal-footed cup with handle + matching saucer; pair set of 2 cups + 2 saucers)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eMaterial: high-fired white porcelain (磁器) with cobalt-blue underglaze + gold overglaze (金彩 \/ kinsai) + delicate gold-pierced rim border\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003ePattern: kiku-mon (菊紋) 16-petal gold chrysanthemum crest, centered on each cup body + matching crest on each saucer; cobalt-and-gold rim composition\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eProduction year: 1980 (昭和55年 \/ Shōwa 55) — 46-year-old vintage\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eOriginal retail (1980 Japan, user-attested): ¥60,000 JPY\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eCup rim diameter: ~8.0 cm (3.1\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eCup height: ~6.9 cm (2.7\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eCup foot diameter: ~4.5 cm (1.8\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eSaucer diameter: ~14.5 cm (5.7\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eSaucer height: ~2.0 cm (0.8\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003ePer-cup capacity (estimated): ~150–180 mL (5–6 fl oz) — between demitasse and full teacup; useable as small tea, small coffee, or large espresso\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eFoot mark: 「光峰」 (Kōhō) gold cursive maker signature on each cup's foot ring — identifies the maker as \u003cstrong\u003e光峰窯 \/ Kōhō Kiln\u003c\/strong\u003e, operated by 水口製陶所 in 多治見 (Tajimi), Gifu Prefecture\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eIncluded paper accessories: (1) green Mino-yaki kiln-shop introduction card \"世界を翔る美濃焼\" — a generic Mino-yaki kiln-shop info card narrating the 1,300+ year Mino-yaki tradition in Gifu's Tajimi \/ Toki \/ Mizunami region (2) green 「ご使用上の注意」 care card\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eMade by 光峰窯 (Kōhō Kiln) \/ 水口製陶所 \/ Mino-yaki in Gifu Prefecture, Japan, curated by ZenKiln\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout Mino-yaki (美濃焼)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMino-yaki takes its name from Mino Province in what is now Gifu Prefecture, where pottery has been fired for over 1,300 years across the contiguous kilns of Tajimi, Toki, and Mizunami. The enclosed Mino-yaki kiln-shop card describes the lineage of Mino-yaki's signature styles — 志野 (Shino), 織部 (Oribe), 黄瀬戸 (Kiseto), and 瀬戸黒 (Setoguro) — and notes that Mino-yaki accounts for more than half of Japan's domestic ceramic production by volume. This particular cup-and-saucer pair belongs to the cobalt-and-gold export-style tradition that Mino-yaki kilns developed in the Shōwa period, blending European Imperial-china visual vocabulary with Japanese decorative iconography.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout the 叙勲記念 (jokun-kinen \/ Imperial Decoration Commemorative) tradition\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Japan, when a citizen receives a state honor — an 旭日章 (Order of the Rising Sun), 瑞宝章 (Order of the Sacred Treasure), 文化勲章 (Order of Culture), or other 叙勲 \/ 褒章 — the recipient traditionally hosts a 祝賀会 (celebration banquet) and exchanges 菊紋入り記念品 (kikumon-engraved commemorative items) with family, colleagues, and well-wishers. This is a recognized product category in Japan, with dedicated specialists carrying ceramics, glass, lacquerware, frames, and confectionery — all bearing the 16-petal 菊紋 (chrysanthemum crest). This category is \u003cstrong\u003edistinct from 宮内庁御用達（historical record） (historical Imperial Household designation)\u003c\/strong\u003e — a separately and historically awarded supplier status held by a small number of named kilns (Fukagawa Seiji, Koransha, Noritake special line, Ōkura Tōen, Hirado, etc.). A jokun-commemorative piece may be made by any kiln; a historical Imperial Household designation piece must be made by an official 御用達（historical record） firm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis cup-and-saucer pair matches the jokun-commemorative convention in every physical respect — the 16-petal gold kikumon, the cobalt-blue band, the gold-pierced rim, the pair (二客揃) format, the premium 1980 retail price tier, and the formal coffee\/tea-cup form. We surface this as a \u003cstrong\u003edescriptive style classification\u003c\/strong\u003e — the piece belongs to the 叙勲記念 tradition by its visual and cultural conventions, rather than being a specific provenance claim to one named Imperial Decoration ceremony. The maker, \u003cstrong\u003e光峰窯 (Kōhō Kiln)\u003c\/strong\u003e, is an industry-documented Mino-yaki tableware producer in Tajimi but is not a verified 宮内庁御用達（historical record） purveyor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care (per green care card included)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePorcelain (磁器) wares are firm and not water-absorbent; gold + silver overglaze items (金銀彩) are \u003cstrong\u003eNOT microwave-safe\u003c\/strong\u003e (電子レンジでのご使用は出来ません); hand-wash gently — metal scouring or abrasive cleansers will damage the gold rim and crest; avoid sudden temperature change; impact and dropping are strictly prohibited (強い衝撃を与える事は厳禁). Suitable for tea, coffee, espresso, or display use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eGifting \u0026amp; Presentation (pair format)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 二客揃 (ni-kyaku-zoroe \/ pair set of two) is the traditional Japanese hospitality and gift unit for couples — wedding, anniversary, retirement (還暦 \/ 喜寿), or a Father's Day milestone for a tea- or coffee-loving recipient. We hand-pack the full pair inside protective wrap + a secondary outer box for international shipping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eShipping \u0026amp; Returns (Antique Line)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a one-of-one estate pair set. We do not accept returns on antique-line listings; all condition details and the maker's documentation are disclosed above and in the photos. Please ask any questions before purchase — we are happy to send additional close-up photos of any cup, saucer, or paper accessory, including a higher-resolution macro of the foot signature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout ZenKiln\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Japan-based curator connecting international collectors with Japan's artisan ceramic tradition. We work closely with the kilns, workshops, and makers featured in our shop — each one disclosed in our About section — and hand-pack every piece in Japan for safe delivery worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📦 Ships from Japan, hand-packed for safe delivery.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ZenKiln","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47659486937318,"sku":"ZK-CUPSAUCER-KOH-001","price":220.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0779\/5392\/5350\/files\/6a0f48436f03bf48e8c7f28f9f150b4c_884a16f5-8067-4e52-83e0-896f52df47ac.png?v=1780219260"},{"product_id":"vintage-utamaro-ukiyo-e-woodblock-reproduction-portfolio-bijin-ga","title":"Vintage Ukiyo-e Woodblock Portfolio After Utamaro — 6 Bijin-ga Ōban Reproductions, Washi Folio (Fukkokuban)","description":"\u003ctable style=\"width:100%;border-collapse:collapse;font-size:15px;line-height:1.55;margin:0 0 22px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-top:1px solid #e7e7e7;border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eObject\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eUkiyo-e woodblock print portfolio (fukkokuban 復刻版) — 6 ōban bijin-ga + original washi folio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eAttribution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAfter Kitagawa Utamaro\u003c\/strong\u003e (喜多川歌麿, 1753–1806) — a vintage reproduction, NOT an original Edo-period print\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003ePlates\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003e6 multi-block colour woodblock reproductions on washi + multilingual caption booklet\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003ePrint size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003e38.2 × 26.0 cm (15.0 × 10.2″) each — full ōban (大判)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eFolio size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003e49.5 × 35.5 cm (19.5 × 14.0″) closed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eWeight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003e691 g (1.52 lb) — folio + 6 prints + caption book\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eMaterial\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eWashi paper (和紙); multi-block woodblock (mokuhanga)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eTechnique\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eHand-pulled multi-block colour woodblock with kentō registration (genuine woodblock, not litho\/offset)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eFolio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eRed deckled-edge washi cover, titled 「浮世絵」(Ukiyo-e) on a seigaiha gold-pattern slip\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eEra\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eLate Shōwa, estimated 1960s–1980s (dated by the 6-language caption incl. Russian)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eSubject\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eBijin-ga (美人画, beautiful-women) — geisha, mother \u0026amp; child, hair-combing, lovers\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eCondition\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eExcellent — clean, full colour, no foxing, no tears\/creases; unrestored\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eIncluded\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eWashi folio + multilingual caption booklet + 6 ōban prints\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eVintage ukiyo-e woodblock portfolio — six bijin-ga after Utamaro\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA complete vintage Japanese woodblock-print portfolio of six \u003cem\u003ebijin-ga\u003c\/em\u003e (美人画 \/ beautiful-women) compositions after \u003cstrong\u003eKitagawa Utamaro\u003c\/strong\u003e (喜多川歌麿, 1753–1806), gathered in their original deckled-edge red washi folio titled 「浮世絵」(\u003cem\u003eUkiyo-e\u003c\/em\u003e). Each sheet is a multi-block colour woodblock impression on Japanese washi at full ōban size (大判, 38.2 × 26 cm) — the colour registration, kentō marks, and soft tactile relief of the line-block confirm these are genuine woodblock-printed reproductions, not lithograph or offset.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHonest attribution — a reproduction (fukkokuban), not an original Edo print\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese six prints are \u003cstrong\u003evintage Japanese reproduction woodblock prints (fukkokuban 復刻版)\u003c\/strong\u003e — \u003cstrong\u003enot\u003c\/strong\u003e original Edo-period Utamaro impressions. Original Kansei-era Utamaro prints are museum-tier objects priced in the thousands to tens of thousands of dollars per impression; this is a high-quality multi-block woodblock reproduction printed by a Japanese woodblock publisher in the late Showa era for the international art market. \u003cem\u003eFukkokuban\u003c\/em\u003e is itself a respected Japanese craft — these sheets are cut and printed by skilled woodblock artisans using traditional kentō registration and natural pigment on washi. The reproduction publisher is not identified on the folio.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Curated by ZenKiln from a Japan-based sourcing studio. Original designs by Kitagawa Utamaro (Edo period, Kansei era); this object is a late-Showa fukkokuban reproduction portfolio.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe six plates\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach plate carries a printed caption sheet describing the original in six languages (Japanese, English, French, German, Russian, Spanish):\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e「西国の芸者」 — \"Geisha of the Western Provinces\" (ōkubi-e close-up; original c. Kansei 7 \/ 1795)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e「逢身八契」 — \"Joyful Meeting\" \/ Chūbei and Umekawa, lovers from the Chikamatsu tragedy (original end-Kansei)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e「山姥と金太郎図」 — \"Yamauba and Kintarō\" \/ the mountain woman and her son (Utamaro's late period)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e「婦人相学拾躰 — かみすき」 — \"Woman Combing,\" from the Ten Studies of Womanly Physiognomy series (original c. Kansei 3 \/ 1791)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e「歌撰恋の部 物思恋図」 — \"Love-thinking,\" from the Anthology of Poems: Love section (original c. Kansei 4 \/ 1792)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e「高名美人六家撰」 — \"One of the Six Selected Famous Beautiful Geisha\" (original mid-Kansei)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout Utamaro\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKitagawa Utamaro (1753–1806) is the most internationally recognized master of \u003cem\u003ebijin-ga\u003c\/em\u003e ukiyo-e. His Kansei-era work — the period these six plates reproduce — established the classical vocabulary of Japanese feminine portraiture, and his \u003cem\u003eōkubi-e\u003c\/em\u003e (大首絵 \/ close-up portraits) revolutionized the genre in the 1790s. After his death his prints became a foundational influence on the European Japonisme movement, shaping Manet, Degas, Toulouse-Lautrec, and the early Van Gogh.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDating this portfolio\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe six-language caption sheet — including Russian alongside the major Western European languages — places the production firmly in the postwar Cold War cultural-exchange export window, narrowing the estimate to roughly the 1960s–1980s (late Showa). The folio's 「浮世絵」 title slip on a seigaiha (青海波 \/ wave) gold-pattern washi is the standard presentation format used by Japanese fukkokuban publishers of that period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCondition\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent. The red washi folio's deckled edges are intact; the prints are clean with full colour saturation, no foxing or significant toning, and no creases, tears, or losses to any plate. Unrestored. Additional close-up photos of any plate or the folio are available on request.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDisplay \u0026amp; use\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach print frames beautifully as a standalone object — the ōban sheets fit standard A3 \/ 30 × 40 cm frames with a single passe-partout mat. The six can hang as a grid, a horizontal run over a sofa, or a vertical sequence up a staircase. For collectors, the portfolio is just as valuable kept intact and stored flat — the original washi folio is part of the historical object and protects the prints from light and handling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCare\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHandle with clean dry hands or cotton gloves. Store the portfolio flat in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If framing for long-term display, use UV-protective glass. Washi is archival material and stable for generations when stored properly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIncluded\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 × original red washi deckled-edge folio with 「浮世絵」 seigaiha title slip\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 × multilingual caption booklet (Japanese, English, French, German, Russian, Spanish)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6 × ōban-size bijin-ga woodblock reproduction prints after Utamaro\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHand-packed flat between rigid backers in a double-walled carton from Japan; insured in transit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout ZenKiln\u003c\/strong\u003e — A Japan-based curator connecting international collectors with Japan's artisan ceramic tradition. We work closely with the kilns, workshops, and makers featured in our shop — each one disclosed in our About section — and hand-pack every piece in Japan for safe delivery worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📦 Ships from Japan, hand-packed for safe delivery.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ZenKiln","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47725613449446,"sku":"ZK-PRINT-UTAMARO-001","price":688.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0779\/5392\/5350\/files\/6a0f48436f03bf48e8c7f28f9f150b4c_f74e7c1b-facf-4939-8158-cfdb2f158850.png?v=1780211091"}],"url":"https:\/\/zen-kiln.com\/en-cz\/collections\/showa-postwar-vintage.oembed","provider":"ZenKiln","version":"1.0","type":"link"}