plum blossom teapot origin: kutani, japan | era: early shōwa period (c. 1930s–40s) | material: cream porcelain with handpainted mural and gold detailing
umeko is a charming teapot named for the plum blossoms that bloom across its surface — a motif of quiet strength in japanese folklore. crafted from warm cream porcelain, its body is handpainted with a scene of flowering branches and a single songbird, rendered in traditional kutani enamels and delicate gold touches. the subtle gold detailing that accents the design adds a touch of understated elegance, catching the light and highlighting the intricate linework. the bamboo handle, with its warm, natural texture, provides a comfortable grip and complements the teapot's organic aesthetic.
we found umeko in a countryside home near yamashiro onsen, nestled among other heirlooms wrapped in old tenugui cloth. it speaks to a time of shared tea on tatami floors, where beauty was simply part of daily life.
length: 14cm | width: 12cm | height: 12cm
*note: slight crack at the bottom might cause some leakage but umeko is still functional
