Mug -Kiwi by Takunobu Sawada

Realistic, yet heartwarming—
Take a moment of calm with your favorite cup.

Ceramic artist Takanobu Sawada works from his studio in the tranquil countryside of Nantan, Kyoto.

Surrounded by nature, he creates pottery featuring lifelike yet warmly expressive animals that bring a sense of comfort to daily life.

Each mug is carefully shaped by hand, with attention given not just to its appearance but to how it feels when held—every curve thoughtfully crafted for usability.

The soft, milky white clay known as kohiki gives the surface a gentle, organic texture unique to pottery.

The charm of handmade craftsmanship

Instead of being painted, the animal designs are carved into the surface using the sgraffito technique, where the top layer is gently scraped away to reveal the design beneath.

Every line feels alive with motion, giving each piece a unique warmth and character.

Born to a family of Kyo-ware and Kiyomizu-ware ceramicists, Sawada has been immersed in pottery since childhood. With 20 years of experience, his skills already rival those of veteran artisans.

Blending youthful creativity with traditional Kyoto techniques, Sawada brings originality and joy to every piece he creates.

Let one of his charming cups become part of your daily ritual.

Owner's Comment

This mug has a generous capacity and is designed for daily ease of use.

The oversized handle is broad and comfortable to grip, offering stability and balance even when full.

The vivid animal designs wrap around the mug and are full of expressive detail—you’ll find yourself enjoying new discoveries each time you use it.

Find the one that speaks to you and make it your go-to favorite.