Mug -Adelie Penguin by Takunobu Sawada

Realistic, yet endearing—
Unwind with a cup that brings comfort.

From his studio nestled in the rural mountains of Nantan, Kyoto, ceramic artist Takanobu Sawada brings the charm of the natural world to life through his pottery.

Surrounded by nature, he crafts vessels featuring animals that are both realistic and full of warmth, each piece radiating gentle character.

Every mug is carefully thrown on the wheel and hand-carved to fit comfortably in your hand, combining thoughtful form with everyday functionality.

The smooth, creamy white surface of kohiki glaze enhances the soft, earthy texture unique to handmade pottery.

The warmth of handmade work

Rather than using a brush, the animal designs are created by carefully scraping into the kohiki clay surface, a traditional sgraffito technique.

Each line is lively and expressive, resulting in pieces that feel both artistic and heartfelt.

Sawada, the son of a Kyo-ware and Kiyomizu-ware potter, has been immersed in ceramics since childhood. With two decades of experience, he’s already regarded as a master in his field—despite still being in his 30s.

His work is a blend of refined technique and youthful creativity, rooted in Kyoto’s tradition yet full of modern charm.

We invite you to bring one of his delightful creations into your daily life and experience the warmth it offers.

Owner's Comment

This generously sized mug is ideal for those who enjoy a hearty cup of coffee or tea.

The handle is wide and comfortably shaped to fit your hand, offering both stability and ease of use.

The hand-carved animal designs are rich with expression and detail—each one feels like a small work of art.

Find the one that captures your heart and enjoy it as your daily companion.