Cloud Cup (embossed)

The simple, squared profile of this pin ming cup serves as the backdrop for a work of masterful craft: into the fine, celadon blue porcelain, the form of billowing clouds have been painstakingly embossed by hand. Referring to classic scroll paintings in ink, the embossing enhances not only the pleasing haptics of the otherwise glass-smooth surface, but allows light passing through the thin porcelain to illuminate the curling clouds: a lithophane teacup—or rather, an expression of the storied 'an hua' (lit. 'dark flower') technique that long predates European lithophanes. Sip your tea on a bright day to enjoy another dimension, as the color seeps through, resembling a clear midday, breaking dawn, or a long sunset.

This exquisite cup is the work of Ling Yin Ping, whose ethereal designs can also be found in the Cloud Gaiwan and Heaven Set. Comes in a cushioned presentational box.

Written by Dimitri