[set] Porcelain of Sake Cup and Plate by Nakata-gama

Take a look at these adorable goldfish, who are as comfortable swimming on this cup as they would in a pond!

This set of ochoko and plate adorned with hand-drawings are pieces made in Nakata Gama; one of the most popular studios for Tobe ware.  They add rough clay into the basic porcelain which results in iron specks appearing here and there, giving the pieces a rustic flavor.  We can feel a nostalgic Japanese vibe in these works. 

This very small choko cup is also called a “soba choko” and is primarily used to hold sauce for dipping soba noodles into. Despite this, however, people have also used soba choko for various other things even from the beginning of its history. It’s size and shape makes it very versatile, and that is why today, this cup is also called “ochoko”.  It makes a great buddy to pair with your sake sipping time!

You’ll also receive this matching lovely plate with your ochoko, making this set perfect to enjoy your sake and a treat! 

“Tobe ware” is porcelain tableware made in the town of Tobe in Ehime Prefecture.  This style is around 240 years old and is known for its simplicity and warmth. It is characterized by a bluish-white surface overlaid with indigo paintings called “Gosue”. Tobe ware is rather thick, has a simple shape, and is quite hard. The durability that results from these traits makes this style of tableware more suitable for everyday use than styles such as Kutani or Arita ware. This makes this soba choko perfect for your everyday table setting! In Tobe, many artists are doubling efforts to revive this tradition by mastering the techniques and spirit used in making these pieces today. In fact, the field is expanding to include more diverse artists than there were.  For instance, traditionally, these artists were mostly male and exclusively Japanese.  With the current trend, however, many females are embracing this art as well as a handful of foreigners. These new artists and traditions have actually influenced some of the old masters in the field, and they too are now expanding their ideas and styles in the search for new ones. These artists and their creations are creating a new chapter in Tobe ware while spreading its beauty even further.

 Click here to read about the different types of sake cups.

PRODUCT DETAIL

Color: drawn in indigo
Cup Dimension approximately:
   diameter 3.0″× height 2.28″ (7.62cm × 5.80cm)
   capacity 130cc
Plate Dimension approximately:
   diameter 3.8″× height 0.86″  (9.65cm × 2.18cm)
Material: porcelain
Area of origin: Ehime, Japan
Potter: Nakata gama, Tobe-ware
Item#: 1091-1092

Important Notes Concerning Appliances and Fire
please refrain from using it:
-On a direct flame

NOTE
* A dishwasher may chip or crack your pieces due to the water pressure in the machine or from surrounding dishes. Handwashing is recommended. Please do not use harsh abrasive detergents and wash gently. If really needed, please use a diluted oxygen bleach while bleaching for not long time.
* Hot liquid might make the porcelain's surface hot because of the heat conductivity, please make sure the item is not too hot to burn you before gripping it.

We appreciate your consideration of the following before purchasing:
*Since our items are handmade, there may be slight variations in size, glaze, color, texture, pinhole, crazing, etc.
*Actual color might differ from the photo depending on the condition of the device you use.

Please read about porcelain for more details by clicking here🖱