Imbe cup and saucer

Run by two potters who trained under Yuho Kaneshige, Toukoubou Yu presents an Imbe cup & saucer crafted from exceptionally fine Bizen clay—the very material they once felt was “too precious to use” when the studio began.

Pursuing thinness to the limit—as if steel were being drawn out—this piece pairs a rigorously symmetrical, poised profile with a clarity reminiscent of glassware. The quiet aesthetic translates directly into superb usability: a finely thinned rim and a gently fitting body make for a beautifully comfortable drink.

To achieve this thin throw, certain natural impurities were carefully removed from the clay, yielding a soft, velvety surface that further enhances the tactile experience.

Here, the color and texture native to Bizen clay meet the studio’s high tableware craftsmanship, resulting in a refined, modern piece that feels effortless in the hand.

About Toukoubou Yuu

Toukoubou Yuu was established in 2011 by three former apprentices of Yuho Kaneshige, a distinguished Bizen ware artist.

The studio’s current members are:

Shusaku Kaneshige (born 1978)

Yousaku Kaneshige (born 1980)