Cup (2) - Ceramic / stoneware - Japanese Ceramic Tea Cups

These two Japanese ceramic or stoneware tea cups exemplify the traditional vessel styles used in Japanese tea culture. Tea cups, smaller than Western mugs and often without handles, are designed to enhance the enjoyment of green tea and other brews. Crafted from durable stoneware or delicate ceramics, they may feature minimalist designs or ornate glazes reflecting regional pottery styles such as Hagi, Kutani, or Mino. Their form and texture engage the senses during tea drinking, complementing the ritualistic and social functions of tea in Japan. Collectors appreciate these cups for their craftsmanship, cultural resonance, and functional beauty.