Sculpted Ceramic Cup & Saucer with 24k Gold Porcelain Crystals

Sculptural ceramic cup & saucer with 24k gold porcelain crystals. This one-of-a-kind ceramic cup and saucer set is hand carved from dark stoneware using the kurinuki technique, known for its raw, subtractive sculpting process. The cup’s form is gently rounded, offering a soft yet rugged silhouette and a single, angular, hand sculpted porcelain crystal is attached to one side, giving an artistic nod to where the handle would usually be found. The exterior is left unglazed, but finished with a hand applied black underglaze wash to deepen its tone and enhance the contrast with the crystal form. The interior is coated in a dynamic, glossy royal blue glaze, creating a striking visual shift between the inner and outer surfaces. The porcelain crystal that emerges from one side of the cup is entirely coated in 24k gold lustre, catching and reflecting the light with vivid brilliance. The accompanying saucer is highly sculptural, with a small central area glazed in rich royal blue where the cup rests, surrounded by a wide, carved rim in dark clay. One portion of the rim features seven, hand carved porcelain crystals, each coated in 24k gold lustre, creating a vivid, radiant focal point. When the cup sits atop the saucer, the visual tension between the refined gold crystals, the rugged black clay and the glossy, royal blue glaze makes for a captivating and dramatic presentation. Designed to be cupped gently in both hands, this piece invites slow, intentional use – or quiet admiration. The crystals are sculptural and should not be used as a handle. Fired three times, including a final lustre firing to seal the gold to the porcelain crystals, this piece is crafted with time, patience and care. More than a cup, this is functional ceramic art, created to bring light, contrast and presence into daily ritual – whether used or displayed. I forgot to photograph the underside of the cup and saucer, but I have carved my signature under both. Hand wash only.