Tezumi Ofukei Mug

Ofukei glaze is a traditional, feldspar-rich ash glaze associated with Akazu-yaki pottery. It is historically significant because the Kasen Kiln is the last remaining workshop of the four families originally commissioned by the Tokugawa Shogunate to produce these wares for Nagoya Castle.

The pattern, known as seiunmon, is created using the chōka technique, which involves pasting carved or stamped designs onto the clay. The deep blue color is then achieved using gosu, a traditional cobalt oxide pigment, which contrasts against the celadon-esque green of the base glaze.

The crazing, or fine network of cracks in the glaze, is a natural characteristic of the Ofukei firing process and does not compromise the structural integrity of the ceramic. It adds to the piece's aesthetic depth and is a common feature in traditional Japanese pottery.

Yes. Because each mug is hand-crafted by Katō Hiroshige using natural materials from the Akazu region, there will be subtle variations in the glaze application, color intensity, and the placement of the cloud patterns. Each piece is unique.

We recommend hand-washing this mug with mild soap and avoiding the dishwasher to preserve the integrity of the glaze and the delicate chōka detailing. As with most handcrafted pottery, it is best to avoid sudden, extreme temperature changes.