A charming vintage pair of Wajima-nuri (輪島塗) guinomi sake cups, finished in classic red and black lacquer and decorated with a stylised corn motif (とうもろこし).
The corn motif evokes summer, harvest and abundance, bringing a warm, playful seasonal character to the design. The two cups share the same simple cylindrical form with a small raised foot, creating a balanced and comfortable shape for serving sake. One cup is finished in a warm vermilion-red lacquer, while the other is coated in deep black, forming an elegant contrasting pair.
Wajima-nuri (輪島塗) originates from Wajima in Ishikawa Prefecture and is one of Japan’s most highly regarded lacquerware traditions. It is known for its durable multi-layer construction, carefully polished surfaces and refined decorative techniques.
A guinomi (ぐい呑) is a small sake cup, generally larger and deeper than a traditional sakazuki. It is designed for relaxed drinking and is often appreciated as much for its material and craftsmanship as for its practical use.
