Tokyo Ginki Silver (Silver 999)Gyokuto Tea cup (Sake cup) Dragonfly

This cup is made from 99.9% pure silver and is crafted by Kamikawa Sotatsu, a traditional artisan of "Tokyo Silverware," a craft with a long history in Tokyo.

Pure silver is inherently soft, so most silver products are made from sterling silver, which is 92.5% silver mixed with other metals like copper. However, this cup, with its 99.9% purity, does not have the usual softness.

The secret lies in its construction method. The silver is shaped through a process known as forging (Tanzo), where the metal is hammered to increase its strength. Hammering applies pressure to close internal gaps in the material, refine the crystal structure, and enhance the metal's strength. This method is similar to the traditional forging techniques used in crafting Japanese swords.

The exterior of the cup has wabi-sabi color and texture made with traditional techniques, while the interior is polished to a mirror-like finish.

This cup is designed to look like a dragonfly flying over water ripples. The body of the cup is decorated with water pattern. The artist was also inspired by the gesture of circling a dragonfly with a finger when catching it.
The cup expresses a scene of nature and a playful spirit.

The dragonfly is also made of  pure silver and can be removed when the cup is used. In the cupboard, the dragonfly can be attached to the cup to see and enjoy its charm. When enjoying a cup of tea or a drink, it will be a pleasant time with the dragonfly by your side.

Silver has high thermal conductivity and is not suitable for using hot tea (too hot to hold in the hand or burn the lips). If used for tea, it should be used for Gyokuro tea or other teas that use a lower water temperature, around 40 degrees. It is suitable for drinking sake and water, and silver cups mellow sake and water.

Width: 4.5-4.6cm
Height: 4.8cm
Weight: Approx. 60g
Material: Silver 999
Box: Wood
Q'ty: 1 piece 

Buttefly cup is also available, please ask us.

Remarks. This item is also available on our other channel. If it sells out, it may take some time to be restocked. Please inquire about the delivery time before placing your order. Thank you very much for your understanding.