Hand-Painted Kutani Ware Cup Set by Nakamura Toshihito

By Master Artisan Nakamura Toshihito | Limited Production | Made in Japan

This exceptional Kutani ware cup set is hand-painted by Nakamura Toshihito, a first-class skilled craftsman officially certified as a traditional Kutani Ware artisan by Japan’s Ministry of Industry.

Produced in extremely limited quantities, this set represents master-level Japanese porcelain—created for collectors and those seeking meaningful, enduring gifts rather than mass-produced tableware.

A Versatile Cup for Tea & Sake

In traditional Japanese ceramics, cups of this form are intentionally versatile. Neither strictly a tea cup nor solely a sake cup, they are designed to be enjoyed according to personal preference and occasion.

Perfect for:

• Green tea, sencha, or hojicha

• Sake or other small pours

• Quiet daily rituals or celebratory moments

This flexibility reflects the Japanese philosophy of mindful use—where one beautiful object can serve multiple purposes over time.

Master Kutani Craftsmanship

Each cup is individually hand-painted using traditional Kutani techniques, featuring refined bird and seasonal floral motifs. The brushwork demonstrates balance, restraint, and depth—hallmarks of advanced Kutani artistry.

Subtle variations in shape, glaze tone, and painting are natural characteristics of handmade porcelain and are considered part of the beauty and authenticity of each piece.

About the Artist – Nakamura Toshihito

Nakamura Toshihito is a distinguished Kutani ware artist with decades of experience in traditional Japanese ceramics. His career includes:

• Selected for the Traditional Kutani Ware Crafts Exhibition (1974, 1994)

• Recipient of awards at the Creative Exhibition, including the Hokka Prize (1990)

• Selected for the Japan Traditional Art Crafts Exhibition (1997, 1998, 2003)

• Solo exhibition at Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi Main Store

• Former lecturer at the Ishikawa Prefectural Kutani Ware Technical Training Institute

His work reflects both technical mastery and a deep commitment to preserving traditional Kutani craftsmanship.

A Thoughtful Gift for Special Occasions

Presented as a paired cup set and housed in a traditional wooden box, this piece makes a meaningful gift for moments worth commemorating:

• Valentine’s Day

• Anniversaries or weddings

• Holiday gifting

• Milestone celebrations

• Refined corporate or client gifts

Rather than a seasonal novelty, this is a lasting object meant to be used, appreciated, and kept for years.

Size & Details

• Dimensions: Approx. D 2.44" × H 2.09" (each cup)

• Material: Porcelain

• Origin: Japan

• Care: Hand wash only; not dishwasher or microwave safe

Limited Production

This set is produced in very small quantities and is not part of continuous production. Once sold out, restocking may not be possible.