Hattenmoku Saké Cup by Tamaya Kōsei

Description

This seasonal saké cup represents Tamaya Kōsei's newest creative tangent.  The technique is called hattenmoku, and the leaf imprint is the residual iron content from a dried elm leaf (mukunoki) which fused with the tenmoku glaze while burning away in the kiln.  The process is exceedingly difficult, as the leaves have only a small window of time in which to add their artistic touch before they disintegrate into dust at 1,250°C (2,300°F).  No two pieces are ever the same.

After nearly a year of experimentation with leaves of different types, the artist has found that the best leaves come from the beautiful mukunoki trees at Ujigami Shrine in Kyoto's Uji district.  The result of his tireless quest is proudly presented here.

A wooden presentation box will be custom made to order and signed by the artist.  Delivery time for this item is 2 weeks.

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