Mug / Bruco / Black

Product Description

Product Story

General Product Information

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

 Product History

When did these crafts start to craft?：400 years ago / 1600AD / Edo period in Japan

Satsuma ware traces its origins to the late 16th century, born from a unique cultural exchange between Japan and skilled ceramic artisans from the Korean Peninsula. Under the patronage of the local lords, these master potters established diverse styles that evolved into the refined ceramic tradition celebrated today.

To this day, dedicated kilns preserve these ancestral roots, honoring centuries-old techniques—such as the use of natural glazes and traditional wheel-throwing methods—that remain unchanged by time. Since its internationally acclaimed debut at the 1867 Paris World Expo, "SATSUMA" has captivated the world with its exquisite beauty, a prestige reaffirmed by major exhibitions at prestigious European museums in recent years.

Craftsman Story

Craftsman Profile

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.

Craftsman Passion

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.

 

Your Contribution to Craftsman

Customer Voice

Due to the market structure (link for full articles are attached bottom), craftsman have not known who the customer is and how customer reacts to their work. We made a “Message to Craftsman” box at purchase page. We will deliver all message to every craftsman. Our review will be also shared to craftsman so please leave your comment and evaluation on review section!

Income for Craftsman: Craftsman get only less than 10% of selling price?

As written above, craftsman have not controlled last phase of sales channel that resulting in selling price is set by third-party without craftsman’s recognition. There are some cases that only less than 10% of selling price is given to craftsman. We promise with our customer / craftsman that we offer the fair trade with craftsmen in our contract!

We made an article about above problem and our challenge. Please have a read from below link.
Current state of the Crafts Market / Benefits brought by Suigenkyo

Measurement

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

Material & Caution

Materials

Ceramics

 

Caution

Individual Difference

Each piece is handmade, so there are individual differences even in the same series. We hope that you will understand the change by handmade.

Delivery Date

Please note that it will take about a month for delivery if we do not have the item in stock.