Mug / Bruco / Black

The name "Bruco" means "caterpillar," a tribute born from a deep appreciation for the beauty of the natural world. Each piece features a soft, egg-shaped silhouette; when stacked, the cups playfully resemble a caterpillar standing upright.

The body of the cup offers a distinctive, tactile experience with its textured, grainy surface. Inside, the glaze is crafted primarily from the volcanic sands of the Shirasu Highlands, creating a natural finish that beautifully complements any beverage. The handle is left as unglazed "yakishime" stoneware, retaining the raw color of the earth to look as if a small creature is clinging to the side.
In harmony with nature, both the body and handle are shaped with a relaxed, organic approach rather than forced precision. As a result, each piece possesses a unique character and slight variations in form.

Available in Three Sizes:
- Demi Cup: approx. 80 ml (ideal for espresso)
- Regular Cup: approx. 150 ml
- Mug: approx. 230 ml

Width：8cm
Depth：8cm
Height：8.5cm
Weight：180g
Capacity：230ml

Ceramics

TSUKINOMUSHI

1. Rooted in Kagoshima

We continue to create ceramics that embody the authentic spirit of Satsuma.

2. Handcrafted Daily Goods

As Satsuma craftsmen, we meticulously hand-make functional art for your everyday life.

3. Growth Through Connection

We evolve by learning, designing, and sharing joy alongside our community.

4. Beyond Aesthetics

We pursue an essence that transcends mere beauty, "cool," or "delicate."

5. A Commitment to Quality

We take pride in every piece we create, ensuring it is delivered with care to our users.

6. Sharing Timeless Wisdom

We remain mindful of the insights gained over time and strive to pass them on.

7. Respecting Tradition

While honoring traditional Satsuma ware, we reflect on the purpose of creating in our homeland.

ARTISAN STORY

Tsukinomushi: Family-Crafted Ceramics from Kagoshima

In the heart of Kagoshima, our family-run brand, "Tsukinomushi," breathes life into clay.

Our work is defined by the exquisite kannyu (crackle glaze) of Shiro-Satsuma (White Satsuma) and the sophisticated, deep textures of Kuro-Satsuma (Black Satsuma). While we hold a profound respect for traditional heritage, we continuously embrace the challenge of integrating contemporary designs and innovative techniques. Our creative journey seeks to go beyond mere aesthetics—striving for a beauty that transcends "cool" to eventually become a timeless standard.

We envision our tableware and lifestyle goods as the perfect "supporting actors" for your living room or restaurant. Offering a rich variety of pieces designed to add a touch of joy to daily life, each item is meticulously handcrafted with care and delivered from our home to yours.

SATSUMA WARE

About 430 years ago / 1590s / Azuchi–Momoyama Period

Satsuma ware developed in Kagoshima from the skills of Korean potters brought to the region under the Shimazu at the end of the sixteenth century. Two contrasting traditions emerged: white Satsuma with fine crackle, painting and gold, and dark Satsuma made from iron-rich clay for robust everyday vessels.

In Japan, white Satsuma is associated with fine art, while dark Satsuma evokes sake ware and daily use, especially in Kagoshima’s shochu culture. Contemporary kilns range from ornate historical styles to restrained modern tableware and studio ceramics.

In the nineteenth century, “Satsuma” became so fashionable at international expositions that the word was used abroad almost as a generic label for richly decorated Japanese ceramics. Export pieces made outside Kagoshima were sometimes sold under the same name—a regional identity transformed into a global style category.

Individual Differences

As each piece is individually handcrafted, slight variations in color, pattern, shape, and texture may occur. These subtle differences are a natural characteristic of handcrafted works, making each piece truly unique. We hope you will enjoy these individual variations as part of the beauty and character of Japanese craftsmanship.

Production Time

If an item is not currently in stock, it may be made to order by the artisan. As each piece is carefully handcrafted, production may take several months depending on the item and the artisan's schedule. We appreciate your patience and understanding.