Shōchikubai Senchawan – 40ml

This delicate and elegant Kiyomizu-yaki porcelain senchawan (sencha cup) is decorated with the shōchikubai (松竹梅 – pine, bamboo, plum) motif, with carefully hand-painted and gilded pine tree, plum branch, and bamboo stalk.

Also known as The Three Friends of Winter, shōchikubai is traditional East Asian art motif that has its origins in Tand Dynasty Chinese art. Each of the three plants is known for not withering throughout the winter months, thus representing resilience. In Japan, this motif is also heavily associated with New Year’s.

With a classic tulip shape and a modest 40ml capacity, this cup is ideal for savouring high-grade sencha, though can be used for any purpose. The pure white of porcelain also allows you to appreciate the colour and clarity of the tea.

This cup was made by Kuramoto Masao (倉元 真佐夫) of Kōhō Kiln (光抱窯).