Small cup -Shoebill A by Takunobu Sawada

Realistic yet endearing—
Take a moment to unwind with your favorite cup.

Deep in the countryside of Nantan, Kyoto, ceramic artist Takanobu Sawada creates his work surrounded by the beauty of nature.

His pottery features animals rendered with a sense of realism, yet each figure exudes a gentle warmth that makes them feel familiar and comforting.

Every piece is carefully shaped by hand, with a form that has been trimmed for both visual balance and a pleasant grip.

The soft, milky-white kohiki glaze enhances the gentle feel of the clay, adding a warm, tactile quality unique to pottery.

Warmth in every handcrafted line

Instead of using a brush, Sawada carves each animal design into the kohiki glaze using a sgraffito technique. The motion in every line adds life to the figures.

This distinctive method brings a sense of warmth and personality to each piece, making them not just tableware but works of art.

With over 20 years of experience, Sawada has been immersed in the world of ceramics since childhood, following in the footsteps of his father, a Kyo-ware potter.

Now in his 30s, he brings both seasoned craftsmanship and a fresh perspective to the Kyoto pottery scene.

Combining traditional skills with his own modern touch, Sawada’s ceramics reflect the individuality and artistry that define Kyoto’s rich pottery culture.

We invite you to bring his unique perspective into your everyday life through this charming vessel.

Owner's Comment

This petite cup also serves perfectly as a yunomi (tea cup).

Its small size fits snugly in the hand, and the animal design adds a gentle, comforting touch to your table.

It's the kind of piece that quietly complements your daily life.