Kayura
Shigemichi Tabata

Nagashi Tall Cup

Shigemichi selected a unique type of hardened clay called 'Kurotsuchi' from Shigaraki, one of Japan's oldest pottery-producing regions. Only the most experienced ceramic artisans have the skill to create extremely thin-walled vessels using this difficult-to-work clay where the properties change depending on the season. After the cup is painstakingly formed, fine adjustments are made by hand to perfect the shape of this magnificent cup. Shigemichi was inspired by 'Kokuto', an ancient form of black pottery from the late Neolithic period, and the contrast of the hand-applied metallic glaze results in a masterful fusion of modern design and thousands of years of tradition.

Drawn upward into a slender, elongated silhouette, the tall cup's graceful proportions showcase the flowing nagashi glaze along its full height while keeping the vessel light and effortless in the hand. Its ample capacity makes it a natural companion for a leisurely beer, iced tea, or a long summer drink, savored slowly from its exquisitely thin rim. As these are handcrafted, no two cups will be alike.


Material & Specifications

MaterialShigaraki KurotsuchiShigaraki Kurotsuchi (黒土, black clay) is a distinctive regional stoneware body prized for its rich, deep coloration and tactile tooth. Formulated from the mineral-dense, iron-rich sediments native to the ancient Lake Biwa basin, it blends the signature structural plasticity and high refractory strength of Shigaraki clay with naturally dark minerals or iron additives. When fired, it develops a deep charcoal-to-warm-black tone that provides dramatic contrast against white slip, ash deposits, or lighter glazes. The body retains the coarse, gritty texture characteristic of Shigaraki wares—often revealing visible specks of feldspar and silica that give unglazed surfaces an earthy, weathered depth.
Dimensions85 x 140 mm (3.3 x 5.5 in.), 500 mL (16.9 fl. oz)
Made InJapan
SKUST-AC


Care Instructions

• There may be variations in the product such as color shading due to variations in the kiln. There may be small pinholes in the glaze, and the pattern and color may differ. Please enjoy the unique individual expression of each vessel.
• After use, promptly remove any dirt, wash with kitchen detergent, rinse, and thoroughly dry before storing.
• Do not place this item in the oven or on direct heat, such as a stove or open flame.
• Please refrain from scraping the tableware on hard surfaces or objects as this may result in scratches.
• The bottom rim of the cup has been thoroughly smoothed in production. However, if after extended use you feel any roughness due to use on hard surfaces, it can be smoothed again using commercially available sandpaper.
• Ceramics have a natural absorbency. As a result, please refrain from leaving this item submerged in dirty water, as it may absorb the water and result in unwanted stains or odors.
• Allowing the product to fully absorb hot water before use will increase its natural resistance to stains.