Vintage item. This Hagi ware cup exhibits the understated elegance and warmth characteristic of traditional Japanese pottery from the Hagi region. The vessel features a subtly flared rim and a rounded body that narrows slightly toward the foot, giving it a balanced yet organic form.
The glaze is soft and variegated, with tones of milky white, pale gray-blue, and earthy reddish-brown blending seamlessly in natural gradients. The surface bears fine crackles (kan-nyu) that will deepen and become more expressive with use, a hallmark of Hagi ware’s evolving beauty over time. The clay body underneath—visible at the unglazed foot—reveals a coarse, iron-rich texture typical of Hagi’s native clay, contrasting beautifully with the smooth, semi-translucent glaze above.
Subtle kiln effects, including blushes of warm pinkish hues and areas of ash-like texture, suggest wood-firing or a natural reduction atmosphere, adding individuality and depth to the piece.
This cup embodies wabi-sabi—the aesthetic of imperfection and transience—making it ideal for tea ceremonies or contemplative daily use.
