Jingdezhen Qinghua Kintsugi Wabi-sabi Style Kungfu Teacups|Best Ceramics

Qinghua Kintsugi Teacups

$480.00 USD

Qinghua Kintsugi Teacups

$480.00 USD
Estimated shipping and regional duties may apply,

 

This exquisite teacup set is a unique blend of history and artistry, consisting of two beautifully crafted teacups from the Qing Dynasty, originating from the renowned porcelain city of Jingdezhen. Each teacup showcases the timeless elegance of Blue and White porcelain, with intricate hand-painted patterns that reflect the rich cultural heritage of ancient China.

What makes this set truly special is the incorporation of the Kintsugi technique—a traditional Japanese art form that mends broken pottery with lacquer dusted with powdered gold. One teacup remains in its original, pristine condition, while the other has been thoughtfully repaired with Kintsugi, turning a once-fractured piece into a symbol of resilience and beauty. This delicate fusion of Chinese and Japanese craftsmanship embodies the philosophy of wabi-sabi, an aesthetic that finds beauty in imperfection and impermanence.

By adding this teacup set to your collection, you’re not just acquiring functional teaware, but also a piece of art that tells a story of cultural interplay and enduring craftsmanship. The juxtaposition of the flawless and the repaired teacup serves as a poignant reminder that true beauty often lies in the stories and scars we carry.

Size:
H 3.2cm
D 7.2cm
Volume 35ml

Styled With

FAQ

What is Kintsugi exactly?

Kintsugi (金缮/金繕) is a traditional Japanese technique of repairing broken pottery by filling cracks and breaks with lacquer and decorating them with powdered metal (gold, silver, etc.). Instead of hiding damage, it highlights the “scars” as part of the piece’s history and beauty. 

What is Chinese lacquer (Da Qi)?

Chinese lacquer, known as Da Qi, is a natural resin extracted from the lacquer tree. It forms a durable surface with a soft, glowing finish and is used for repairing ceramics or creating handcrafted trays, jewelry, and decorative pieces.

Is a kintsugi‑repaired piece safe for food or tea? 

Yes — if repaired using traditional urushi lacquer and real metal powder (gold or silver), the piece can be food‑ and drink‑safe.  

However: avoid exposing it to extreme heat (microwave, oven), and avoid dishwasher or strong cleaners — these can damage lacquer or metal surfaces. 

Can lacquer replace glue?

Absolutely. We strictly use natural lacquer to bond ceramics, without any fast-drying glue.

How should I care for and clean kintsugi pottery?

Follow these rules for best longevity:

  • Hand‑wash only with soft sponge or cloth and mild detergent / warm water.  
  • Rinse thoroughly, dry immediately with soft cloth — avoid soaking or leaving water too long.  
  • Never use dishwasher, microwave, oven, or expose to abrupt temperature changes.  
  • Avoid abrasive sponges, hard brushes, bleach, acidic or alkaline cleaners, and sharp cutlery against repaired lines — to prevent scratching or damaging the lacquer/metal finish. 
Can all broken ceramics be repaired with kintsugi?

Not all broken ceramics are suitable for Kintsugi. The technique works best when the fragments fit together neatly and the base material and glaze are compatible with lacquer adhesion. Extremely thin pieces, severely shattered ceramics, or surfaces with glaze that resists bonding may not be reliably repaired using traditional Kintsugi. Experienced practitioners recommend carefully assessing each piece before attempting restoration.

In addition, some modern “quick fixes” using epoxy resin or other artificial materials, while convenient, generally do not adhere to traditional standards and are not recommended for vessels intended for food or drink.

Is kintsugi repair permanent? Can it be redone if needed later? 

Traditional Kintsugi using urushi lacquer can last a very long time if properly cured and maintained — many preserved works have endured for decades, even centuries. If the lacquer layer degrades due to wear, chemical exposure, or extreme environmental conditions, experienced artisans can re‑lacquer or restore the piece. This ability to be repaired and renewed is one reason why Kintsugi is considered a sustainable and regenerative art form.

Are there allergy or health concerns with urushi lacquer?

Yes — raw, uncured urushi lacquer (urushiol) can irritate the skin or trigger allergic reactions, much like poison ivy. Many traditional craftsmen recommend wearing gloves, long sleeves, and working in a well-ventilated space when handling uncured lacquer.

Once the lacquer is fully cured and sealed, lacquerware is generally safe for everyday use. However, if you have known sensitivities to natural resins, it’s wise to exercise caution or choose pieces that are professionally treated and clearly marked as food-safe.

Is kintsugi environmentally friendly or sustainable?

Yes. Kintsugi embodies the philosophy of repair, reuse, and respect for objects. Instead of discarding broken pottery, it transforms damage into beauty, extending the life of items and reducing waste. This aligns with sustainable living ideals and adds unique historical/aesthetic value. 

Jingdezhen Qinghua Kintsugi Wabi-sabi Style Kungfu Teacups|Best Ceramics

Form & Details

Size: H-32 mm | D-70 mm | C-40 mL

Origin & Craft

  • Dehua, China
  • Gold Leaf
  • Ash Base (瓦灰 - often referred to as 'Tonoko' in Japanese Urushi context)

Cherished Longevity

  • Hand Wash Only
  • Avoid Direct Sunlight
  • No Microwave/Dishwasher
  • Keep in Humid Environment

The Artist

Crafted by Kevin

Each gold-mended line is a personal signature of our master lacquer artist. Discover the hands that turned a break into a masterpiece.

View Artist Profile

The Craft

Authentic. Food-Safe. Everlasting.

Natural Urushi: 100% natural tree lacquer—no chemicals, no toxins.

24K Gold: Dusted with pure gold for a resilient, museum-grade finish.

1-of-1: No two scars are the same. You are owning a unique history.

Explore the Kintsugi

Insights

Curious about the Journey?

The Philosophy: [Why broken is better →]

The Studio: [The 45-day mending process →]

The Care: [How to cherish your Kintsugi →]

What Lacquerware Looks Like