Kutani (九谷焼) tea cup with gold leaf

At a glance

- Kutani-yaki (九谷焼), Kaga, Ishikawa Prefecture, METI-designated traditional craft
- Gold leaf applied and fired over richly coloured overglaze enamel
- 9.2cm wide, 9cm tall; yunomi form suits sencha, hojicha or sake

Gold leaf in Kutani ware is not decoration added at the end. It is applied over the coloured overglaze enamels and fired again, so the gold becomes part of the surface rather than sitting on top of it. The result is a soft, luminous shimmer rather than a harsh metallic shine.

Kutani-yaki (九谷焼) was first produced in the city of Kaga, Ishikawa Prefecture, in the mid-17th century and is designated by Japan's Ministry of Economy as a traditional craft. It is known above all for its vivid overglaze enamel colours and bold, pictorial surfaces that make each piece feel like a small painting. Kanazawa and its surrounding region developed a particularly refined tradition of gold leaf application, and this cup sits within that heritage. The yunomi (湯のみ) form has a gently curved profile that fits comfortably in both hands, with a slightly thicker lip that feels reassuring when drinking hot tea. At 9.2cm wide and 9cm tall, it suits sencha, hojicha, or sake. The kind of cup that makes an ordinary brew feel like it deserves more attention.