YAMAHEI KILN

Eggshell – Delicately Thin as a Shell

So thin that the color of your drink shows through, Eggshell is a signature creation of Yamahira Kiln.
To produce this level of delicacy, the kiln uses a specially refined porcelain clay developed in-house.
High in glass content and fired without glaze, the clay allows light to pass through, giving the vessel its characteristic glow.
When filled, the color of the beverage subtly shines through the surface, adding a soft touch of beauty to your everyday moments.

Reviving a Lost Art: “Eggshell” Porcelain Reimagined

The inspiration behind Yamahira Kiln’s Eggshell series lies in a nearly forgotten Japanese ceramic tradition known as "Rankakude".
Originally crafted between the Edo and Meiji periods, this delicate porcelain was highly prized in the West for its paper-thin yet durable structure, earning it the name “eggshell” overseas.
Production ceased around the time of World War I, and the technique faded into obscurity—becoming known as a “phantom” porcelain.
Now, through the skilled craftsmanship and advanced porcelain techniques of Arita, Yamahira Kiln has revived this lost art for the modern age, bringing the elegance of Rankakude back to life.

Pure White Elegance with a Silky Touch

The Eggshell series showcases the hallmark brilliance of Arita ware—its radiant, porcelain white. Crafted from ultra-fine clay, each piece has an exceptionally smooth surface and a soft, airy texture reminiscent of a silk cocoon.
This refined feel is achieved through the meticulous work of skilled artisans, who polish the surface at every stage of production. The result is a delicately smooth touch that reflects the quiet beauty of true craftsmanship.

Traditional Japanese Patterns That Cast Elegant Shadows

Among the Eggshell series, "Monyo" collection stands out for its intricate surface patterns, inspired by traditional Japanese motifs passed down through generations.
Light plays gently across the raised and recessed surfaces, creating beautiful shadows that bring each pattern to life—subtly emerging from the pure white porcelain.
Each of the Monyo patterns—Nanako and Yarai—is rich in cultural meaning.

Nanako(left, above image): A fine, shimmering pattern that sparkles like fish scales when it catches the light.
It is inspired by fish eggs and symbolizes wishes for fertility and the prosperity of future generations.

Yarai(right, above image): This pattern represents a traditional bamboo fence used for protection.
It is believed to ward off evil spirits and is also said to resemble falling rain, like arrows from the sky.

Chrysanthemum Motifs Hidden Beneath

Each of the three glasses features a uniquely designed chrysanthemum crest engraved on its base.
Hold them up to the light and compare the delicate patterns—it’s one of the subtle pleasures of the collection.

Surprisingly Strong, Incredibly Light

Despite its delicate appearance, Eggshell is remarkably durable—fired at 300°C for 13 hours to create a body that is both strong and resistant to breakage.
With a rim thickness of less than 1mm, it offers an exceptionally light and airy feel in the hand.
The soft texture and smooth mouthfeel only add to its refined usability

Care Instructions

This product is not dishwasher safe.
As the glass is exceptionally thin, take care not to apply excessive pressure while washing.
When adding ice, we recommend tilting the glass and letting the ice slide in gently to avoid striking the bottom.